WASTEC

Challenge

The WASTEC project was launched with the aim of establishing a long-term partnership with Stellenbosch University (SU) and its water institute. The project aimed to establish a base and a scientific and technological network for water research in sub-Saharan regions, which are particularly vulnerable to the negative effects of climate change. The project focused on developing strategies to address serious challenges related to water demand and quality, particularly in the areas of desalination and water reuse.

As part of this initiative, a reverse osmosis plant was developed to enhance water treatment and desalination capabilities. The plant was intended to help secure the region's water supply and increase the availability of clean drinking water. Through collaboration with Stellenbosch University and other partners, innovative technologies and solutions were developed to overcome challenges in the water sector and encourage the adoption of sustainable water resource management practices. The WASTEC project strengthened research capacities, promoted knowledge exchange and improved water infrastructure in sub-Saharan regions.

Motivation

Climate change and associated extreme weather conditions, coupled with population growth, are causing significant and often permanent water shortages in many regions around the world. Agriculture, industry and the private sector are not receiving adequate supplies, leading to intense competition and conflicts arising not only between different sectors, but also between different countries (as most rivers and aquifers are transboundary). Research organisations are therefore focusing on water-related research and technologies for efficient water use and reuse, water supply management, and the development of water sources, as this is an extremely relevant market.

Solution

The following tasks were completed as part of the project:

• Reducing energy consumption
• Replacing conventional sources with renewable energies relevant to desalination
• New environmentally friendly antifouling processes and antimicrobial technologies relevant to food production were developed

Technical solutions focused on reducing energy consumption in desalination using reverse osmosis (RO) plants, as well as on the use of new antimicrobial technologies for ensuring the safety of food production. Fraunhofer IOSB-AST's focus was on plant control, optimising the use of renewable energies and cost modelling.

Added value: Based on the cooperation between WASTEC and Fraunhofer-SU, as well as the results achieved within the framework of this project, a science and technology network involving other R&D institutions and relevant industry will be established in other sub-Saharan countries in the long term to develop the R&D market.