Event: WEFTEC 2023 – Water Environment Federation Technical Exhibition & Conference

Date: September 2023

Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA

Type of CPD: International conference / technology intelligence / sector engagement

Duration: Multi‑day event (attendee + contributor)

Summary of the Event

I attended WEFTEC 2023 in Chicago, the largest annual water‑quality event in North America and one of the most influential global gatherings for wastewater, stormwater, and environmental‑monitoring professionals. The conference brought together utilities, regulators, technology companies, researchers, engineering firms and innovators from across the world.

The programme included technical sessions, workshops, panel discussions and one of the world’s largest water‑sector exhibitions. Key themes included digital transformation, advanced monitoring, treatment optimisation, climate resilience, biosolids, nutrient removal, and emerging contaminants.

Throughout the event, I engaged with global leaders on the role of real‑time biological monitoring, microbial activity sensing, and the integration of biological data into digital platforms to support predictive operations and environmental performance.

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 Digital twins, automation, predictive analytics and integrated data platforms.
• Wastewater treatment innovation Process optimisation, nutrient removal, membrane technologies and energy efficiency.
• Stormwater and wet‑weather management Monitoring, modelling and infrastructure strategies for resilience.
• Emerging contaminants PFAS, microplastics, pharmaceuticals and evolving regulatory expectations.
• Climate resilience and sustainability Low‑carbon treatment, resource recovery and adaptation strategies.
• Global innovation ecosystems Collaboration between utilities, researchers, investors and technology providers.