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The wastewater treatment plant market size is forecast to increase by USD 46.5 billion, at a CAGR of 6.5% between 2023 and 2028. The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing number of wastewater treatment projects worldwide. Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), such as ultraviolet (UV) and ozone treatment, are gaining popularity for their ability to produce high-quality effluent, meeting stringent regulatory requirements. The trend toward reclaimed wastewater usage is also driving market growth as water scarcity becomes a pressing issue. Industrial processes are a major source of wastewater, and municipalities are under pressure to improve effluent quality to meet environmental standards. Operational challenges, including high energy consumption and maintenance costs, remain a concern for market participants. In California, water utilities are leading the way in wastewater treatment innovation, setting new benchmarks for effluent quality and sustainability.
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The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD billion" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018 - 2022 for the following segments.
The secondary treatment segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Secondary treatment plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of wastewater by eliminating dissolved and suspended biological contaminants. This process significantly improves the effluent, making it suitable for various applications, including industrial and commercial uses. The Bangalore Water Supply and Sewage Board (BWSSB) in India is a prime example of the significance of secondary treatment.
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The secondary treatment segment was valued at USD 49.30 billion in 2018. Currently, BWSSB provides 18 Million Liters per Day (MLD) of treated water for non-potable applications, sourced from 24 secondary sewage treatment plants (STPs) and four tertiary sewage treatment plants (TTPs). Chemical treatment, filtration, settling operations, and other advanced techniques are employed during secondary treatment to ensure effective contaminant removal. Green technologies, such as anaerobic digestion and bio-solids management, are increasingly being adopted to minimize the environmental footprint of these facilities. The promotion of treated water from these plants underscores the importance of secondary treatment in providing a sustainable and reliable water resource.
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APAC is estimated to contribute 41% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period. The Asia Pacific region is experiencing notable expansion in the global market for wastewater treatment plants. Factors such as urbanization, industrialization, and stringent environmental regulations are driving this growth. This plant, which targets improving the quality of wastewater discharged into the Yamuna and Hindon rivers, also intends for agricultural usage. Employing advanced chemical and physical processes, this treatment plant effectively eliminates contaminants, thereby significantly enhancing the treated water's quality. The APAC market is witnessing several key projects and technological innovations, including the adoption of water treatment technologies like biological treatment, secondary treatment, tertiary treatment, and membrane filtration in various industries, such as pulp and paper.
Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.
Aquacare Solution Enviro Engineers - The company offers wastewater treatment that eliminates hardness and mineral salts from water, hence improving its quality.
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Market structure |
Fragmented |
YoY growth 2023-2024 |
5.7 |
The market is witnessing significant growth due to the increasing awareness of environmental pollution and health risks associated with untreated industrial effluent. Industrial wastewater, a byproduct of various manufacturing processes, often contains high levels of contaminants that can negatively impact freshwater resources and municipal water infrastructure if not properly treated. Contaminants in industrial effluent can include heavy metals, organic compounds, and suspended solids. These contaminants can lead to environmental pollution, groundwater pollution, and even violate water quality standards. Moreover, untreated industrial effluent can pose health risks to humans and aquatic life. To mitigate these issues, wastewater treatment plants employ various technologies to remove contaminants and improve effluent quality. Primary treatment methods include settling operations and filtration, while secondary treatment methods utilize biological processes such as the Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) reduction. Tertiary treatment, which includes advanced technologies like membrane separation, ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, and Advanced Oxidation Processes (AOPs), further enhances the treatment process. Green technologies are increasingly being adopted in the wastewater treatment industry due to their eco-friendly nature and cost-effectiveness. Membrane Bioreactors (MBRs), for instance, offer a high degree of treatment efficiency while minimizing the use of chemicals.
MBRs use membrane filtration to remove suspended solids and microorganisms, resulting in a higher quality effluent. Water scarcity is another major driver for the wastewater treatment market. Industrial wastewater can be a valuable resource if properly treated, providing an opportunity for water recovery. This not only reduces the demand for freshwater but also helps conserve this precious resource. Techno-commercial awareness is essential in the wastewater treatment industry, as it ensures the effective implementation of wastewater treatment technologies. Proper planning, design, and operation of wastewater treatment plants are crucial for achieving optimal performance and cost-effectiveness. International water law plays a vital role in regulating the discharge of industrial effluent into water bodies. Strict regulations ensure that industries comply with water quality standards, protecting freshwater resources and public health. In conclusion, the wastewater treatment market is driven by the need to address environmental pollution and health risks associated with untreated industrial effluent. Technological advancements, water scarcity, and international regulations are key factors shaping the market. Clean energy technologies, such as membrane bioreactors, are gaining popularity due to their eco-friendly nature and cost-effectiveness. Proper planning, design, and operation of wastewater treatment plants are essential for achieving optimal performance and ensuring compliance with water quality standards. Our researchers analyzed the data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key drivers, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.
Increasing wastewater treatment projects is notably driving market growth. The market is experiencing notable expansion due to the rising number of initiatives to improve wastewater management systems. This growth is evident in the plans of various governments and private entities to address the escalating need for advanced wastewater treatment solutions. For instance, the Private Investment Promotion Agency has announced plans to invest USD1,118 million (excluding VAT) in seven major wastewater treatment projects, scheduled for the first half of 2025. These projects aim to serve communities in Chincha, Cajamarca, Huancayo, San Martin, Puerto Maldonado, Trujillo, and Cusco.
These initiatives will be awarded through a Co-financed Private Initiative (CPI) under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) scheme. Advanced Oxidation Processes, such as Membrane Bioreactors (MBRs) and Ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, will likely be employed to ensure compliance with stringent water quality standards and address freshwater scarcity concerns. These projects are crucial in the context of international water law and the increasing importance of industrial wastewater management. Thus, such factors are driving the growth of the market during the forecast period.
Increasing inorganic growth strategies among companies is the key trend in the market. The market is experiencing significant growth, with a focus on advanced technologies to address sewage, agricultural wastewater, leachate, and municipal wastewater. Companies are adopting inorganic growth strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, to expand their reach and incorporate innovative treatment technologies.
In August 2023, Kurita Europe GmbH acquired Arcade Engineering Group (AEG), gaining expertise in designing and installing water treatment plants for various industries, particularly semiconductors. Biological and electrochemical treatment technologies are increasingly popular, with centralized and decentralized systems catering to diverse client needs. Waste management remains a critical application area for these technologies, driving market expansion. Thus, such trends will shape the growth of the market during the forecast period.
Operational challenges associated with wastewater treatment is the major challenge that affects the growth of the market. The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing demand for advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) to improve effluent quality. With water scarcity becoming a pressing issue, the reuse of industrial processes' reclaimed wastewater is gaining popularity. California water utilities and municipalities are leading the way in this regard, with the production of NEWater, a high-quality reclaimed water, becoming increasingly common. Sustainability concerns are driving the market's evolution, with a shift towards the use of higher-concentration chemicals.
This approach aims to minimize transport costs and emissions, as well as reduce the size of dosing systems. However, the high costs of establishing new infrastructure remain a challenge. For instance, the construction of a new wastewater treatment plant can result in substantial expenses for residents. The North Shore project, completed in March 2024, demonstrated this issue, with households expected to pay an additional USD 725 per year to cover the project's costs, which far exceeded the original estimate. Despite these challenges, the market continues to grow, with a focus on providing efficient and sustainable wastewater treatment solutions. Hence, the above factors will impede the growth of the market during the forecast period
The market forecasting report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator's stage to the laggard's stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their market growth analysis strategies.
Customer Landscape
Wastewater treatment plants play a crucial role in mitigating water contamination from industrial and municipal effluents. The presence of contaminants in wastewater, including heavy metals, organic pollutants, and pathogens, necessitates the application of advanced treatment technologies. Chemical treatment, filtration, settling operations, and membrane separation are common techniques used in the industry. Green technologies, such as biological oxygen demand (BOD) reduction, membrane bioreactors (MBRs), and advanced oxidation processes (AOPs), are gaining popularity due to their eco-friendly approach and techno-commercial awareness. Industrial sectors like chemical & pharma, oil & gas, food, pulp & paper, metal & mining, power & generation, and municipalities generate significant industrial wastewater. Water scarcity and environmental pollution pose significant challenges, necessitating the need for water recovery and reuse.
Wastewater treatment plants employ secondary and tertiary treatment methods, including biological treatment, membrane filtration, and ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, to meet stringent water quality standards. Infrastructure expenditure on municipal water infrastructure and design & engineering consulting services are essential for building and installing new wastewater treatment plants. Operation & process control, maintenance & repair, and membrane separation technologies are crucial for ensuring optimal plant performance. Water contamination from agricultural wastewater, leachate, and sewage also requires attention. Electrochemical technology and decentralized systems offer potential solutions for addressing these challenges. International water law and municipal organizations play a critical role in regulating wastewater management practices and enforcing environmental pollution control.
Market Scope |
|
Report Coverage |
Details |
Page number |
208 |
Base year |
2023 |
Historic period |
2018 - 2022 |
Forecast period |
2024-2028 |
Growth momentum & CAGR |
Accelerate at a CAGR of 6.5% |
Market growth 2024-2028 |
USD 46.5 billion |
Regional analysis |
APAC, North America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and South America |
Performing market contribution |
APAC at 41% |
Key countries |
US, China, Germany, India, Canada, UK, Japan, Russia, Australia, and France |
Competitive landscape |
Leading Companies, market research and growth, market report, market forecast Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks |
Key companies profiled |
Aquacare Solution Enviro Engineers, aquashakti water solution, CleanTech Water, ECOfluid Systems Inc, Ecolab Inc., Envicare, Evoqua Water Technologies LLC, Fluence Corp. Ltd., Hydro International Ltd., Ion Exchange India Ltd., Kurita Europe GmbH, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd, Organica Water, Inc., Paramount Ltd, Pranjali Water Solution Technology, Shree Water Tech, SUEZ SA, Trity Environ Solutions, Triveni Engineering and Industries Ltd., and Veolia Water Technologies |
Market dynamics |
Parent market analysis, market growth inducers and obstacles, fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, AI impact on market trends, COVID -19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, market condition analysis for the forecast period |
Customization purview |
If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. |
1 Executive Summary
2 Technavio Analysis
3 Market Landscape
4 Market Sizing
5 Historic Market Size
6 Qualitative Analysis
7 Five Forces Analysis
8 Market Segmentation by Type
9 Market Segmentation by End-user
10 Customer Landscape
11 Geographic Landscape
12 Drivers, Challenges, and Opportunity/Restraints
13 Competitive Landscape
14 Competitive Analysis
15 Appendix
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