Elevate your knowledge: Aquatech's September best articles unveiled!
Welcome to the 9th edition of the 2024 Aquatech newsletter: Watertech Insights. Read our best-read articles of September.
Essential guide: The basis of water-energy nexus
For years, water, energy, and food were viewed as separate sectors with distinct challenges. But as global pressures increase, it’s becoming clear that these systems are deeply interconnected. Water is essential for both food production and energy generation, and energy is crucial for treating and distributing water. With this realisation, a new approach—nexus thinking—emerges, fostering collaboration across industries to address these intertwined challenges.
In this guide, we explore the water-energy-food nexus, examining how it can help solve global issues. Discover real-world examples and the innovative projects driving sustainability.
Sustainable PFAS destruction works at low light levels
Engineers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) have unveiled a groundbreaking, all-in-one solution for tackling PFAS chemicals that can work even in low-light conditions. This innovative approach uses a special catalyst to trap and destroy 90% of PFAS within just three hours, offering a faster and more sustainable alternative to existing methods. The catalyst, made from waste materials, not only adsorbs but also breaks down the harmful chemicals into harmless components.
What sets this system apart is its ability to work efficiently even with limited UV light, making it versatile for use in diverse settings. The UBC team envisions this solution transforming water treatment, from municipal systems to home filtration units.
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Dutch water and agri-food sectors combine to combat salinity
The Dutch water and agri-food sectors are joining forces to combat the growing issue of salinity in agriculture. Through the Saline Water & Food Systems Partnership, three innovative projects in Bangladesh, Senegal, and Mozambique have received seed money to address salinity’s impact on crop yields and food security. These projects aim to leverage local knowledge, agroforestry solutions, and international expertise to develop climate-resilient farming practices.
In Bangladesh, the “Resilient Roots” project will use indigenous practices to adapt to high salinity in coastal areas. Senegal’s project focuses on managing salinity in rice cultivation, while Mozambique’s initiative tackles both salinity and agroecological challenges.
Water quality as a service offered to UK utilities
Siemens is offering UK water utilities a real-time water quality service, accelerating digital transformation across the industry. The Water Quality Analytics as a Service (WQAaaS) platform provides utilities with continuous insights, from water treatment plants to customers' taps. By deploying sensors and using cloud-based analytics, operators can proactively manage water safety, improve maintenance, and reduce risks of bacterial growth or discolouration in drinking water systems.
In collaboration with Northumbrian Water, Siemens aims to revolutionize water quality management, helping utilities meet customer expectations and regulatory commitments.
Want to learn how real-time data can transform water management? Read the full story on our website.