AtkinsRéalis has taken a significant leap forward in the water sector with the development of a groundbreaking digital tool aimed at transforming how wastewater and sewage sludge are treated. This innovative project, birthed from a collaboration with the Chartered Institute of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM), UK Water Industry Research (UKWIR), and Cranfield University, is set to revolutionize the way water companies approach resource recovery. Gone are the days when wastewater was merely seen as a burden; this tool positions it as a treasure trove of valuable materials.
In an industry grappling with the need to pivot from traditional waste treatment to a biorefinery model, the timing couldn’t be better. The new tool allows water companies to make informed decisions regarding which materials to prioritize for recovery. It identifies key resources such as biosolids, ammonia, and carbon dioxide, all of which have potential uses in sectors ranging from agriculture to construction. For instance, the agri-fertilizer industry is on the lookout for sustainable alternatives to conventional fertilizers, and wastewater-derived nutrients could be the answer. Similarly, the highway sector is exploring innovative asphalt options that boast lower carbon footprints, tapping into the wealth of materials that can be extracted from sewage sludge.
Rick Lancaster, Global Bioresources Director at AtkinsRéalis, highlights the potential of this tool to unlock a new paradigm in waste management. “There are myriad uses for what comes out of the treatment of wastewater and sewage sludge, and the key point is to realize full circularity by taking something that is considered to be waste and finding a new use for it.” This sentiment resonates deeply within the industry, as the focus shifts toward sustainability and resource efficiency.
The tool’s framework takes into account strategic factors like Net Zero impact, environmental sustainability, and the readiness of technology, making it a vital asset for water companies striving to align with broader environmental goals. As water companies grapple with the implications of the upcoming regulatory changes, particularly regarding the recycling of biosolids, this tool provides clear guidance on how to navigate these challenges effectively.
Dr. Donna Rawlinson, Industry Programme Lead at Northumbrian Water, emphasizes the importance of this tool in shaping future bioresources strategies, especially as the sector prepares for the next regulatory period, PR29. She notes, “Based upon this opportunity to diversify, the availability of this tool and clear recommendations derived from it will be fundamental to shaping our bioresources strategy.” This proactive approach could very well set a precedent for how the industry adapts to evolving regulations while maximizing circular economy opportunities.
Richard Whale, Global Water Market Director at AtkinsRéalis, reinforces the transformative potential of the tool, stating, “By enabling water companies to make informed decisions about the resources they should be prioritizing for recovery, we can start to see huge opportunities to support net zero strategies.” This perspective underscores a broader movement within the industry to not only improve operational sustainability but also to generate new income streams from recovered materials.
As the water sector stands on the precipice of change, the introduction of this digital tool signals a promising shift toward a more sustainable, circular economy. The implications are profound: not only can water companies enhance their operational efficiency, but they can also contribute meaningfully to national sustainability goals. By embracing this innovative approach, the water industry is poised to redefine its role in resource management and environmental stewardship. The future looks bright, and the potential for positive change is immense.
