10:30
Briefing
Theme 2 of BWW 2026 addresses sanitation, particularly wastewater management, as a structural pillar of sustainability, water and energy security, and urban development. The approach emphasizes resource recovery, system decarbonization, effective integration of innovation, and the consolidation of circular models applied to the sector. The theme aligns with global sectoral public policies, environmental and climate agendas, the 2030 Agenda, and ESG principles, reinforcing the strategic role of sanitation in the transition toward more efficient and resilient systems.
The proposal highlights the evolution of Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) into biorefineries and sustainable production units, capable of going beyond their conventional function of pollutant removal to transform socio-environmental liabilities into strategic assets. In this context, practical case studies and technological pathways are explored for water reuse, clean energy production, nutrient recovery, and the generation of high value-added products such as hydrogen. These approaches contribute to mitigating environmental impacts, optimizing the use of natural resources, improving operational performance, and advancing the universalization of sanitation services.
The theme encompasses high-efficiency, low environmental impact technologies, advanced operational practices, process optimization methods, smart retrofits, and progressive solutions that enable circular economy models in sanitation. It takes an integrated view of technical, regulatory, institutional, and financial aspects. It also highlights the integration of sanitation with ecosystem services and nature-based solutions, expanding its contribution to climate change adaptation, emissions of mitigation, and increased urban resilience.
The discussion prioritizes applied experiences, technical and institutional cooperation, and the development of replicable agendas, fostering a qualified dialogue among utilities, the private sector, startups, academia, international organizations, and public institutions, in alignment with the strategic pillars and international positioning of BWW 2026.
10:45
BWW Connection
12:15
Briefing
This session discusses how innovation legislation creates legal conditions for technological experimentation, applied research, and collaboration among utilities, universities, startups, and research centers, while also highlighting the central role of people building an innovation culture. The session emphasizes that digital transformation is only sustainable when accompanied by behavioral change, capacity building, and strategic leadership.
Key Topics:
- Innovation legislation applied to the water and sanitation sector
- Legal instruments for R&D partnerships and open innovation
- Startup legal frameworks and the promotion of technological experimentation
- International comparison: innovation models in the U.S. and the Netherlands in the water sector.
- The role of people in innovation: culture, leadership, and organizational change
- Technical and behavioral capacity building for digital environments
- How to turn technology into real value through team engagement
13:30
BWW Connection
15:00
Briefing
This session will discuss water supply and sanitation solutions for rural areas under different conditions in low- and middle-income countries, presenting how various countries and regions seek to ensure adequate services for rural populations.
Solutions from diverse contexts will be presented, including both conventional approaches and innovative technologies.
One key topic of discussion will be the role of water and sewage sanitation utilities in providing services in rural areas, whether through full-service provision or partial involvement, such as responsibility for specific stages of implementation, operation, or maintenance.
The session will also explore how communities participate in system management and operation, as well as how they interact with governments and service providers.
15:15
BWW Connection
16:45
Briefing
This panel, structured as a dialogue between national and international experts, aims to promote the adoption of best practices in land-use planning and source of water protection. As a result, it contributes to advancing water safety and the sustainability of water resources. The panel on aquifer protection and source preservation is essential to discuss strategies that ensure water quality and availability for future generations. As strategic sources, aquifers must be protected before pollution and contamination processes occur.