BNEW 2023

Initiatives for a more Sustainable Water Management

06:34 What does sustainable water management mean?

07:00 AGBAR

09:56 AMPHOS 21

12:36 DUSCHOLUX

15:30 The challenges of using sensor data for decision making.

17:33 Technological solutions for water reuse are available and cost-effective

21:50 Water consumption must be reduced in several sectors

23:37 Efficient water management crucial for agriculture and other industries

27:19 Water resources forecasting and climate change adaptation

29:17 Managing floods during a drought is difficult without prior data.

32:56 Water management and self-sufficiency during drought

34:57 Collaboration fosters innovation and improvement in water management

38:37 The challenge is both economic and social, and stresses the importance of data awareness and control.

40:31 Water management can lead to cost savings

44:22 Digitization and optimization are important in integrated water management

46:32 Spain is a pioneer in strict water reuse regulations

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

Several key points were highlighted in this discussion on sustainable water management. First, the importance of collaborative efforts and networking opportunities to promote sustainable water use was emphasized. The need for awareness and initiatives to avoid water wastage and promote digitalization in water structures and technologies was also discussed. In addition, the critical water reserves in Catalonia due to the prolonged drought highlighted the urgency of sustainable water management.

The transformation of wastewater treatment plants into biofactories was another key theme. These plants now produce reclaimed water with specific characteristics for various uses, together with energy and nutrients recovered for agricultural purposes. The aim is to alleviate water scarcity and achieve sustainable management of water resources. Biofactors and nature-based solutions were highlighted as effective approaches to maximize water resources.

The challenges of using sensor data for decision making were discussed, such as the slow pace of sensing and the need for proper data processing and analysis. The need to overcome technological, economic and social barriers to successful water reclamation initiatives was emphasized. Legislative barriers were noted as obstacles to future water reuse strategies, but Catalonia was praised for pioneering innovative indirect reuse projects. Raising awareness in the tourism sector and implementing data management and digitization were seen as crucial steps for efficient water management.