At the United Nations climate talks, where innovation meets urgency, a small but impactful initiative has emerged from Singapore that challenges perceptions of water reuse. Amidst the grand displays vying for attention, the unassuming aqua and purple cans of NEWBrew beer quietly beckon attendees. What seems like a mere refreshment is, in fact, a bold statement on the potential of treated wastewater. Many who approach the counter are taken aback to discover that the beer they’re sipping is crafted from NEWater, Singapore’s signature recycled water.
Ignace Urchil Lokouako Mbouamboua, an international relations student from Congo, expressed surprise upon learning the beer’s origin, but his reaction was one of delight. “I can even suggest that they make more and more of this kind of beer,” he said with a grin, highlighting a growing acceptance of what was once a taboo subject. In a world where water scarcity looms large, Singapore’s initiative to normalize drinking treated wastewater could serve as a pivotal turning point in how societies perceive and utilize water resources.
Singapore’s approach to water management is nothing short of revolutionary. With no natural water sources and a rapidly growing population, the city-state has leveraged innovation as its lifeline. The government has invested heavily in a multifaceted strategy that includes catchment, desalination, and recycling. By 2065, demand for water is projected to double, necessitating a comprehensive rethink of how water is sourced and consumed.
The introduction of NEWBrew in 2018 was a calculated move to destigmatize the use of recycled water. Ong Tze-Ch’in, chief executive of Singapore’s Public Utilities Board, emphasized the importance of public acceptance in this endeavor. “It’s part of the acceptance of the use of recycled water, which in general is a difficult topic,” Ong noted. The beer’s development showcases the innovative spirit of Singapore, where even a beverage can become a vehicle for environmental education.
Wee-Tuck Tan, managing director of Brewerkz Group, the local brewery behind NEWBrew, has observed a shift in public perception. “They think it tastes funny. When put into a beer, it changes the mindset,” he explained, pointing out that most people can’t tell the difference once they’ve taken a sip. This insight reflects a broader trend where consumers are becoming increasingly open to the idea of using treated wastewater, especially as the realities of climate change and water scarcity become more pressing.
The reception of NEWBrew at the climate talks underscores the potential for similar initiatives globally. Saroj Kumar Jha, director of the World Bank Group’s global water department, noted that many leaders around the world are shifting their language from “wastewater” to “used water” to foster a more positive narrative around water reuse. This change in terminology reflects a growing recognition of the value of recycled water in addressing global water challenges.
As the climate crisis intensifies, the conversation around water reuse will only gain momentum. The success of NEWBrew may inspire other regions to explore similar avenues, transforming how societies view and manage their water resources. The future of water may very well hinge on our willingness to embrace innovation and challenge long-held beliefs about what is acceptable to drink.
