Bob Wilkinson believes that many opportunities remain to use water efficiently, even if just by changing the plumbing. As an Adjunct Professor at the Bren School of Environmental Science and Management, Wilkinson's research and teaching is focused on water and energy policy, climate change, and issues of environmental policy. He uses this expertise to advise government agencies, businesses, and foundations on water policy. 

Wilkinson currently serves on the public advisory committee for California's State Water Plan and has served as coordinator for the climate impacts assessment of the California Region for the U.S. Global Change Research Program.