White paper: Unlocking the potential of wastewater

The global water crisis is a defining issue of our time. Over two billion people live in countries experiencing high water stress, and pollution from untreated wastewater continues to threaten both human health and ecosystems. As the global population grows, so does the demand for freshwater, making it essential to adopt and scale effective wastewater management practices.

As the world gathers for the IWA World Congress & Exhibition in Toronto, these pressing global water challenges are high on the agenda. Water scarcity, pollution, and the increasing demand for effective water management solutions highlight the need for innovative approaches. Wastewater treatment emerges as a critical component in this battle, offering sustainable solutions that not only address immediate needs but also pave the way for a more resilient future.

Utilising wastewater as a resource

To address these challenges, State of Green, in collaboration with leading Danish water sector experts, is proud to launch the updated edition of the white paper “Unlocking the Potential of Wastewater” at the IWA World Congress & Exhibition 2024 in Toronto, Canada. The publication compiles insights and tangible solutions from across the water value chain on how to use wastewater as a resource while protecting people and ecosystems. The publication has been made in collaboration with several public and private companies and organisations, with a foreword from Magnus Heunicke, Denmark’s Minister for Environment.

“Globally, it is important to act responsibly to protect people and the environment from intensive, untreated wastewater streams. We need efficient treatment of our wastewater to protect our health and natural environment. With the right technologies, wastewater can become a valuable resource, turning sludge from treated wastewater into energy and transferring heat from the treatment process to the district heating networks.” Magnus Heunicke, Denmark’s Minister for Environment.

“This white paper features a series of best practice examples of wastewater treatment – both centralised and decentralised. Although many of these solutions have been created within a Danish context, they are scalable and applicable for a global audience.”

Read more: Wastewater treatment is of global importance 

The white paper explores cutting-edge technologies, innovative policy frameworks, and successful case studies from Denmark and beyond, featuring contributions from solution providers such as Grundfos, Danfoss, COWI, Ramboll and many more.

Key highlights include:

• Advancements in wastewater treatment: The white paper explores the latest technological breakthroughs that are making wastewater treatment more efficient and sustainable.
• Global success stories: It features examples from Denmark and beyond, demonstrating how effective wastewater management can lead to significant environmental and economic benefits.
• Policy recommendations: To support the widespread adoption of these solutions, the white paper outlines actionable policy recommendations aimed at encouraging governments and industries to invest in wastewater infrastructure.

Discover the white paper

Bringing the full water value chain across the Atlantic

The Danish Pavilion at the IWA World Congress is more than just an exhibition space; it serves as a hub for promoting sustainable water solutions and fostering international collaborations. Besides presenting the new edition of “Unlocking the potential of wastewater”,  attendees have the opportunity to explore Denmark’s comprehensive water value chain through our digital visualisations. These interactive displays cover everything from water treatment and supply to wastewater management and environmental conservation, showcasing Denmark’s holistic approach to water management.

In addition to exploring these technologies, visitors have a chance to connect with experts from across the Danish water sector, participate in discussions on the future of water management and network with solution providers who are leading the charge in sustainable water innovation.

Tap into Danish water expertise

Call to action

The global water crisis demands immediate and sustained action. As water professionals, solution providers and decision makers gathers at IWA in Toronto, we invite you to explore the insights from “Unlocking the Potential of Wastewater” and consider how these solutions can be applied to your own context. By working together—across borders, industries, and sectors—we can address the water challenges that threaten our world and secure a sustainable future for water management.