Event: IWA Ecotech Conference 2023

Date: June 2023

Location: Girona, Spain

Type of CPD: International conference / innovation and technology exchange / environmental monitoring

Duration: Multi‑day event (attendee + contributor)

Summary of the Event

I attended the IWA Ecotech Conference 2023 in Girona, a major international event focused on emerging technologies, digital transformation and sustainable solutions for water and wastewater systems. The conference brought together global experts from utilities, academia, technology companies, research institutes and environmental organisations to explore the next generation of tools supporting water quality, treatment optimisation and climate resilience.

The programme included keynote presentations, technical sessions, panel discussions, innovation showcases and networking activities. Themes ranged from advanced sensing and digital twins to nature‑based solutions, circularity and energy‑efficient treatment processes.

Throughout the event, I contributed to discussions on real‑time biological monitoring, microbial activity sensing, and the integration of biological data into digital water platforms to support predictive operations and environmental protection.

Key Themes Covered

• Advanced monitoring and sensing technologies Biological, chemical and physical sensors for real‑time insight and operational optimisation.
• Digital transformation and smart water systems Data integration, digital twins, automation and predictive analytics.
• Sustainable and energy‑efficient treatment Innovations to reduce energy use, chemical consumption and carbon footprint.
• Circular economy and resource recovery Nutrient recovery, sludge valorisation and low‑impact treatment processes.
• Climate resilience and adaptation Tools and strategies to support utilities facing drought, flooding and water quality pressures.
• Innovation ecosystems and global collaboration Partnerships between utilities, researchers and technology providers.