WATER & WASTE TREATMENT REDEFINING WATER USAGE


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Ufuk Erdal, global water reuse practice and solutions director, Black & Veatch, explains why water efficiency is becoming a competitive differentiator in industrial operations


n industrial operations, water has long been treated as a low-cost, readily available commodity that is essential but rarely strategic. That paradigm is rapidly changing. Today, reducing water usage and advancing resource management by tapping into alternative supply source (e.g. recycled water, storm water, etc.) are emerging as clear competitive differentiators, driven by intensifying recent large increases in industrial water demand, water scarcity, rising costs, regulatory pressures and evolving expectations from investors and customers. For process control and engineering professionals, this shift is redefining how systems are efficiently designed, operated and optimised. Water availability is under increasing strain from new water users related to on-site use in industry and power generation. Water supply demand is expected to grow as advanced manufacturing, energy production and digital infrastructure expand. At the same time, climate variability, drought conditions and infrastructure limitations are making local water supplies less predictable, exposing operations to disruption risks. In this environment, organisations that can manage fresh water withdrawals by reducing water consumption, creating alternative supply approaches and implementing internal recycling programs are better positioned to protect continuity and control operational risk.


The business case for water efficiency is


strengthening. Water-related costs already account for a measurable portion of industrial production expenses, and the trend is for water providers to implement sharp increases in industrial water rates. Reducing water consumption directly lowers utility costs while also potentially decreasing energy demand associated with pumping, heating, and treatment. These efficiencies compound over time, improving margins and freeing capital for reinvestment. As a result, water


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optimisation is increasingly viewed not just as a sustainability initiative, but as a lever for operational performance.


One of the emerging trends is the increased use


of reclaimed water from municipal wastewater treatment systems. Many of the industrial water uses (e.g., cooling), do not require potable water. Wastewater can be treated to produce recycled water that can meet intended beneficial reuse by industries which refers to “fit-for-purpose.” Furthermore, the advances in treatment technologies allow reclaimed wastewater to be utilised in very high-water quality needs, such as ultrapure water in semiconductor fabrication plants. Because the reclaimed water is locally available and a climate independent source, the reliability of reclaimed water is very high.


Operational stability Beyond cost savings, water efficiency enhances resilience that is a critical differentiator in today’s operating environment. Industrial facilities are highly dependent on reliable water supply for cooling, processing and production of goods, and cleaning and testing of material. Interruptions can halt production and lead to significant financial losses. By reducing reliance on external freshwater sources through reuse, recycling and closed-loop processes, organisations can buffer against supply disruptions and maintain operational stability for locations facing acute scarcity and water stress. Market expectations are evolving. Water


stewardship is now a visible component of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance, influencing investor decisions and brand perception. Circular water approaches (water circularity) are gaining traction. This may involve not only new supplies, but revisions to conveyance systems, water storage to match water availability and possible discharge reductions like zero-liquid treatment systems.


PROCESS & CONTROL ENGINEERING | SEPTEMBER 2026


Technology is playing a central role in enabling this transformation. Advances in process control, data analytics and automation are providing unprecedented visibility into water use across operations. Digital tools such as sensors, smart meters, and AI-driven analytics allow operators to identify inefficiencies, detect leaks, and optimise water usage and operating assets in real time. These capabilities move water management from a reactive function to a proactive, data- driven discipline integrated with broader process optimisation strategies. Importantly, the integration of water and energy management is unlocking additional efficiencies. Water and energy are deeply interconnected and reducing energy consumption can lower water use, and vice versa. An integrated approach allows process engineers to identify synergies, optimise resource use holistically, and drive greater overall performance improvements than siloed strategies can achieve. As these trends converge, water is transitioning


from a commodity to a strategic asset. Companies that invest in advanced process control, digital monitoring, and circular resource strategies are not only reducing environmental impact but also building more efficient, resilient and competitive operations. In contrast, organisations that treat water management as an afterthought risk cost uncertainty, increased exposure to disruption and diminished market standing. Ultimately, reducing water usage and


streamlining resource management are no longer optional enhancements rather they are core drivers of industrial competitiveness. As water constraints intensify and expectations continue to rise, the organisations that lead on efficiency will be the ones that lead the market.


Black & Veatch www.bv.com


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