On a planet where only 2.5% of available water is freshwater, pressure on this vital resource increases every year under the combined effects of population growth, urbanisation, and industrial demand.
In Southern Africa, water scarcity represents a major challenge for water security, public health, and economic development.
Treatment of Wastewater
into a Valuable Resource
In this context, Veolia is committed to transforming the way water is used, collected, and returned to the environment.
Through advanced technologies, we design and operate solutions that ensure a safe and responsible supply while reducing pressure on natural resources.
Water reuse lies at the heart of this circular approach. Veolia designs, implements, and operates reuse systems that transform municipal and industrial effluents into a reliable and economically viable resource.
A Circular Approach
to Water Management
Proven Technologies
Using advanced treatment processes such as:
- Ultrafiltration – Removing suspended solids, bacteria, and viruses with precision membrane technology
- Reverse Osmosis – Eliminating dissolved salts and contaminants to produce high-purity water
- Advanced Disinfection – Ensuring microbiological safety through UV, ozone, or chlorination
- Biological Treatment – Breaking down organic matter efficiently and sustainably
- Nutrient Recovery – Extracting valuable resources while treating water
Versatile Reuse Applications
Treated wastewater can be reused for:
- Industrial Processes – Cooling systems, boiler feed water, and manufacturing operations
- Irrigation – Agricultural and landscape watering with appropriate quality water
- Groundwater Recharge – Replenishing aquifers and preventing saltwater intrusion
- Municipal Uses – Non-potable applications including street cleaning and fire protection
- Environmental Flows – Supporting wetlands and river ecosystems
Advanced Treatment
for Multiple Applications
Each project is adapted to local conditions to ensure compliance with the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and environmental performance.
We work closely with municipalities, industries, and regulators to design systems that meet specific needs while delivering reliable, cost-effective results.
Our approach considers:
- Source water quality and variability
- End-use requirements and quality standards
- Regulatory compliance and permitting
- Operational reliability and maintenance needs
- Economic viability and return on investment
- Environmental impact and sustainability goals
Tailored Solutions
for Local Conditions
Durban Water Recycling
A Pioneering Success Story
In South Africa, the Durban Water Recycling (DWR) facility illustrates Veolia's pioneering role in this field. This flagship project provides high-quality treated water to local industries, significantly reducing the city's demand for potable water and helping to preserve natural resources.
The DWR facility demonstrates how water reuse can:
- Enhance Water Security – Creating a drought-resistant water supply for industry
- Protect Drinking Water – Reducing pressure on municipal potable water systems
- Support Economic Growth – Enabling industrial expansion without increasing freshwater demand
- Improve Environmental Outcomes – Reducing wastewater discharge while conserving natural water sources
- Deliver Financial Value – Providing cost-competitive water to industrial users
Water reuse is no longer optional—it's essential for sustainable development in water-scarce regions.
Veolia's expertise in designing and operating advanced water recycling systems helps communities and industries build resilience against drought, reduce environmental impact, and secure their water future.
Whether you're a municipality seeking to diversify water sources, or an industry looking to reduce freshwater consumption and operational costs, our water reuse solutions deliver proven results.
Partner with Veolia to transform wastewater from a disposal challenge into a strategic resource for sustainable growth.
Building Water Resilience
in South Africa
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Explore
our relevant solutions
# Water Recycle & Reuse # Wastewater Treatment # Process Water Treatment
# Desalination solutions # Direct Potable Water Reuse # Cooling Water Systems # Zero Liquid Discharge