Wastewater Treatment as a Lever for Energy Transition and Water Security

Abstract Wastewater treatment is evolving from a pollutant removal process to a resource recovery system. In the context of increasing water scarcity and global energy transition, wastewater represents a strategic source of reusable water, nutrients, and energy. This study analyzes the role of wastewater treatment technologies as a driver of energy transition and water security. Based on a critical review of scientific and institutional literature, conventional and advanced treatment systems are compared. Results indicate that anaerobic digestion and nature-based solutions significantly improve energy recovery and reduce carbon emissions. Wastewater treatment plants can thus evolve into energy-positive infrastructures within the water–energy … Continue reading