Catalysing discussion on the future of water with Denmark's Young Professionals
Last week, at the Odor Schiotz Micro Brewery, we were delighted to host a screening at the IWA Young Water Professional (YWP) group in Odense, Denmark. Aoife Kelleher, Lead Researcher & Assistant Producer at Brave Blue World, and fellow Young Professional, was there to catalyse discussions surrounding the global water challenges we are currently facing.
Among the topics discussed was Danish Utility VandCenter Syd’s (VCS) significant achievement in transforming its largest wastewater treatment plant to being energy independent in just three years. This is the perfect example of a Lighthouse project similar to some of the projects seen in the documentary. Per Nielsen talked us through the ins and outs of creating a water resource recovery facility that generates more than 150% of its own energy and the importance of setting a lasting model for the future.
The VandCenter Syd transformed Denmark’s largest water resource recovery facility from a significant electrical power consumer into a net producer of electricity and heat energy capable of serving more than 400,000 people. If you think that’s impressive, they also achieved carbon neutrality and energy independence in less than a quarter of the typical timeframe for utilities. Nielsen said that the technology part was easy; the innovation came through ambitious goal-setting, planning and partnerships.
Peter Holmes Jensen (our Danish Matt Damon) from Aquaporin spoke about the evolution of the company’s aquaporin membrane technology, which mimics the function of the aquaporin protein in the body. Biomimicry is a theme which runs throughout the documentary and Peter explained to the audience why we should be looking to nature to solve some of the water challenges we are facing. He also discussed with the group his exciting work with NASA.
Finally Wadim Baslow from the Quercus Group emphasised the importance of sustainable development through collaboration and the importance of collaboration between technology, finance and governance. We discussed the role the public have to play in lobbying policy and decision makers along with private sector companies to act responsibly in relation to water consumption and pollution, and our power as consumers to be a part of this powerful movement. The group maintain that multi-stakeholder processes and projects along with the facilitation of partnerships and dialogue is the best way to push for real change within the sector and to lobby groups to do more.
The team felt energised and hopeful after the electric discussion with the IWA Denmark Young Professionals, who along with the Young Professionals globally, will soon lead the future water sector and are currently at the forefront of the design, development and implementation of current change processes within the water sector. We would like to thank everyone who attended the Brave Blue World movie screening and panel discussion, you all certainly made me feel quite positive about the future of water!
Brave Blue World Screening and Panel Discussion at Young Water Professionals Conference in Odense, Denmark, 05/03/2020.
Odor Schiotz Micro Brewery.
