Exploring the global future of wastewater systems

Wastewater treatments are advancing around the globe, and there is a greater awareness of the importance of wastewater. In this light, FnB News spoke to Eugen Egetenmier, managing director of Messe München International, to find out about water innovations around the world.

Mr Egetenmier is based in Germany, and starts by highlighting the role of the European Union in increasing water quality standards. Legislation from the EU often supersedes most nation-state legislation, and is of a very high quality. This means that Europe is home to some of the most advanced water treatment systems in the world.

However, these systems are not always easily transferable to developing nations. India, for example, has different regions and different climate zones and is an emerging market, these alternative conditions can make waste water treatment more arduous than in developed nations.

There are many innovations that are coming on to the market which could be of assistance to both developed and developing countries. Solar water disinfection is proving particularly popular for purifying water, and solar energy is becoming increasingly used in wastewater treatment plants.

There are also innovations in how we conserve water sources, which will also assist developing nations in their pursuit of having a good supply of healthy water. Egetenmier said: “In agricultural irrigation, treated wastewater is an excellent alternative, and one that saves valuable resources. In addition, another hot topic is the aforementioned development of ozone and UV plants which shall help to cleanse water of micro elements. As you can see, there are many different approaches on how to handle the very valuable resource water.”

Posted by Claire Manning