Event: Aquatech Amsterdam 2021 – World’s Leading Water Technology Exhibition

Date: 2–5 November 2021

Location: RAI Amsterdam, Netherlands

Type of CPD: International exhibition / technical learning / innovation and networking

Duration: Four‑day event (attended selected days)

Summary of the Event

I attended Aquatech Amsterdam 2021, the world’s leading trade exhibition for process, drinking and wastewater technologies. The 2021 edition marked the first major in‑person global water‑sector gathering since the Covid‑19 pandemic, creating a strong sense of reconnection and collaboration across the industry. The event featured 458–850 exhibitors (depending on source), over 100 programme topics, and thousands of international visitors from more than 140 countries.

The exhibition showcased cutting‑edge technologies, innovation forums, live demonstrations, panel discussions, and specialist hubs covering digital water, desalination, industrial water, and water quality. The atmosphere was described as energetic, informative and highly interactive, with strong emphasis on networking and knowledge exchange.

Key Themes Covered

• Innovation in water technology Including advanced treatment systems, robotics, decentralised solutions, and award‑winning technologies such as the Autonomic Inspection Robot (Innovation Award winner).
• Digital transformation Smart water solutions, data analytics, automation, and digital twins featured prominently across the Digital Water Hub.
• Industrial and process water management Technologies for efficiency, reuse, and circularity in industrial applications.
• Desalination and membrane technologies New materials, energy‑efficient systems, and integrated treatment approaches.
• Networking and collaboration Exhibitor receptions, country pavilions, and the Innovation Forum (“Celebrating Water’s Change Makers”) brought together utilities, investors, start‑ups and researchers.
• Skills and sector culture Discussions on workforce development, innovation culture, and the future of water‑sector talent.