On September 6, the Dutch water sector took the initiative for the
seminar "Resourceful Water" in the European Parliament in Brussels. The
seminar was hosted by Judith Merkies, member of the European parliament.
120 participants discussed new ideas, insights and inspiring
initiatives regarding water as a source of renewable energy and
bio-products. A paradigm shift is needed to make use of the potential
of the water sector.
Incentives in European legislation – Water is a potential
source of kinetic, thermal and chemical energy. Waste water is as well a
valuable resource for the recovery of phosphates and nitrogen. Before
we can fully benefit from these new technologies and developments
adjustments in both national and European legislation are necessary.
Recommendations from the water sector – A resource
recovery principle for the water sector was mentioned as a general
principle for European policy. Incentives for fair prices and
accessible markets for sustainable products from the water sector were
strongly recommended as well. Integration of water & energy
planning was another important issue.
Request – Judith Merkies requested the water sector to
formulate clear ambitions, present best practices and give suggestions
for precise adjustments in legislation. Merkies will bring these
recommendations for an innovative and sustainable European water sector
into the debate of the European Parliament.
The seminar is an initiative of Waternet, VEWIN, Dutch Regional Water Authorities in cooperation with EUREAU and WssTP.
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