The Solution

Smart wastewater networks

Environment

Health

Water

Smart wastewater networks

To ensure long-term healthy ecosystems and human and animal health, improving wastewater quality is increasingly important: Newly discovered pollutants, micropollutants such as pharmaceuticals, and increasing waste from hygiene products and chemicals from domestic use are increasing the demands on water treatments. The aging of wastewater systems and their increased use due to increasing urbanization poses another burden.

Smart wastewater networks offer the opportunity to address these challenges holistically: With the help of sensors, potential leaks and pipe bursts can be detected at an early stage, as well as information about the quality and pollution of the wastewater can be obtained. Preventive maintenance measures can be taken on the basis of data models. Wastewater treatment can also be made more efficient, sustainable and cost-effective through intelligent sensor technology and data models.

Sustainability check: How do smart wastewater networks help?

Targeted troubleshooting of damage such as leaks or burst pipes.
Reduced water consumption through quick detection of water losses.
Data models and algorithmic decision making facilitate preventive maintenance, resulting in lower costs for emergency repairs.
Improved water quality & health through more effective wastewater treatment.
Increased knowledge of contaminants in wastewater enables targeted interventions and education for citizens.
Auf Ebene der Bürger*innen kann die Installation von Smart Metern für den Wasserverbrauch zu einem bewussteren Umgang mit der Ressource und mehr Kontrolle über die damit verbundenen Kosten führen.
At the citizen level, the installation of smart meters for water consumption can lead to more conscious use of the resource and more control over the associated costs.

Requirements: What is needed for smart wastewater networks?

Network of smart sensors, which can also be continuously built and expanded.
Models for the analyses of the data obtained.
Competence development and expansion at the wastewater companies.

Our Rating:

In particular, the aging infrastructure of wastewater systems is a concern for many municipalities. Here, the development of an intelligent wastewater network can provide relief and contribute to the reduction of water losses, emergency repairs and costs in the long term. The installation of sensors can also help to monitor wastewater quality and thus take targeted measures to improve it. Equipping the wastewater network with the sensors can also be done gradually, for example, by first equipping the main waterways with sensors and gradually expanding the network.

Which SDGS are addressed?

In order to create globally sustainable structures, the member states of the United Nations have set themselves 17 goals by 2030, which are set out in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Associated challenge(s)

Challenges that can be overcome with the help of this solution.

Organize (waste) water management more efficiently

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