WaterMan Study Trip Water recycling as an instrument for safeguarding climate-resilient water supply in humid regions

As part of the Waterman project, a second study trip took place from January 14–16, 2025, focusing on water recycling practices in a humid region. This trip, held in Belgium, offered participants a unique opportunity to explore innovative water management systems across four locations. The study visits demonstrated practical approaches to recycling water and adapting to climate challenges in both urban and industrial contexts.

Day 1: Pioneering Water Reuse Schemes in Belgium

Case Study 1: The Torreele / St-André Water Reuse Scheme

The first visit took participants to Koksijde, where Aquaduin, a regional water company, operates the Torreele / St-André water reuse system. Established in 2002, this facility was one of the first in humid regions to adopt indirect potable reuse. The facility transforms treated wastewater from the Torreele WWTP into infiltration water, which is then used to recharge the groundwater in the nearby dunes.

Key features include:

• A multi-stage cleaning process to ensure water quality.
• Seasonal chlorination levels: lower in winter, higher in summer.
• A system producing approximately 50% of its infiltration water from recycled wastewater.

This project underscores the importance of collaboration with municipalities and local stakeholders to sustain potable water supplies in a tourist-heavy region.

Case Study 2: Water Recycling in the “De Nieuwe Dokken” District

The second stop was the “De Nieuwe Dokken” urban development in Ghent, Flanders’ first circular city district. Managed by DuCoop, the site integrates water recycling into a broader circular economy model, addressing energy, waste, and water management in a closed-loop system.

Highlights include:

• Rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling for 244 households, offices, and a nearby factory.
• Source separation for black water, grey water, and kitchen waste.
• Recovery of approximately 20% of heat from wastewater.
• Energy storage systems and air-source heat pumps for sustainable heating.

This district exemplifies how urban planning can reduce water consumption, with residents using only 60 liters daily (compared to Belgium’s average of 100 liters). Future plans include connecting nearby neighborhoods to maximize resource sharing.

Day 2: Innovative Industrial Water Reuse

Case Study 3: Reuse of Municipal Wastewater at Dow in Terneuzen

The second day began with a visit to Terneuzen in the Netherlands, where Dow, a petrochemical company, collaborates with local partners to recycle municipal wastewater for industrial use. Initiated in the 1990s, this large-scale project treats wastewater at the local WWTP and transports it 12 km to Dow’s facility. There, it undergoes further purification and is reused in manufacturing and cooling processes.

Notable achievements:

• The addition of constructed wetlands for pre-treatment, moving closer to a fully circular water system.
• Reduction of freshwater demand, addressing both seasonal droughts and flood risks common in the Netherlands.
• Integration of rainwater harvesting for agricultural use in nearby greenhouses.

This public-private partnership demonstrates the potential of nature-based solutions and cross-sector collaboration to tackle water scarcity challenges.

The participants then went to the University of Ghent, more precisely to the Kortrijk Campus. There they discussed the recycling of water for industrial purposes in the South of the Netherlands, based on the case of the Dow petrochemical complex in Terneuzen. The next topic was the use of artificial wetlands as a natural solution for pre-treatment in the water recycling system of the Dow petrochemical complex in Terneuzen.

In addition, the participants visited the artificial wetlands on the Kortrijk Campus, where a representative of the University of Ghent spoke about the investment.

Day 2: Climate-Resilient Neighborhoods

Case Study 4: Rainwater Recycling in Wiekevorst

The final visit showcased the innovative “smart street” concept in Wiekevorst, a greenfield residential project with 33 homes and supermarket. The development incorporates collective rainwater harvesting, recycling, and urban raingardens to create a climate-resilient community.

Key features include:

• Rainwater accounting for two-thirds of water use for toilets and gardens.
• Municipal water reserved for drinking purposes.
• Design elements that buffer, infiltrate, and delay drainage to prevent flooding and water shortages.

The project’s success relies on involving new participants, such as schools and businesses, while educating residents about the benefits of sustainable water management.

Key Takeaways and Discussions

On the final day, participants gathered to discuss the broader implications of water recycling for the South Baltic Region, particularly in the context of climate adaptation. The Waterman project, initiated in 2023, has evolved from focusing on water quality to addressing water reuse and climate resilience.

Challenges Highlighted:

• Regulatory gaps and a lack of quality standards for recycled water in agriculture and industry.
• High investment costs and limited funding for less affluent regions.
• Social resistance in some European countries.

Success Stories:

• The Swedish city of Kalmar piloted UV-disinfected treated wastewater for urban irrigation.
• Belgium’s “Blue Deal” program funds innovative water projects with regional and EU support.

Looking Ahead

Water recycling has the potential to strengthen local water systems against climate change, but success depends on collaboration across local, regional, and EU levels. Key priorities include raising public awareness, establishing clear legal frameworks, and expanding financial support.

Upcoming events will continue fostering knowledge exchange and best practices among stakeholders, ensuring a sustainable future for water management in the Baltic and beyond.

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