Event: Cranfield University – Wastewater Industry & Research Innovation Event 2023

Date: November 2023

Location: Cranfield University, UK

Type of CPD: Technical conference / innovation engagement / academic–industry collaboration

Duration: Half‑day to full‑day event (attendee + contributor)

Summary of the Event

I attended the Cranfield Wastewater Event 2023, a key annual gathering that brings together researchers, utilities, technology innovators and postgraduate students to explore emerging science, operational challenges and innovation pathways in wastewater treatment.

The event featured technical presentations, research showcases, panel discussions and networking sessions covering biological treatment processes, digital optimisation, environmental monitoring, resource recovery and future regulatory expectations. Cranfield’s strong academic foundation provided a valuable environment for deep technical exchange and early‑stage innovation insight.

Throughout the event, I engaged with researchers and industry partners on the role of real‑time biological monitoring and microbial activity sensing in supporting treatment optimisation, environmental performance and regulatory compliance.

Key Themes Covered

• Biological wastewater treatment processes Activated sludge optimisation, nitrification/denitrification dynamics, and resilience under variable loads.
• Advanced monitoring and sensing technologies Biological, chemical and physical sensors for real‑time operational insight.
• Digital transformation and process optimisation Data analytics, digital twins, automation and predictive control.
• Emerging contaminants and environmental protection Microplastics, pharmaceuticals, PFAS and evolving regulatory frameworks.
• Innovation pathways and research translation Pilots, validation, commercialisation and industry–academia collaboration.
• Sustainability and circularity Energy efficiency, nutrient recovery and low‑carbon treatment strategies.