Unity4Water - Value creation of reclaimed wastewater

Purpose and goal

OneWater is a revolutionary project that brings together engineering, social science and cutting-edge technology. Researchers will work together to optimize circularity in wastewater reclamation and food production, focusing on nutrient recovery, carbon capture, and much more. OneWater aims to change public perception on wastewater reuse. We will demonstrate the incredible journey of wastewater to food using sophisticated system, automation, and sensors for real-time monitoring. The goal is to bury outdated views on resource reuse and demonstrate sustainable practices.

Expected effects and result

This project is not just about growing crops indoors, but also about setting a new standard for wastewater reclamation and valorization, interdisciplinary research and community engagement It´s about changing the way we view and use our precious resources. We expect a green transition, including a paradigm shift on how we view water and other resources. We will use our project to present and visualize our research and to involve stakeholders. We will optimize the system towards future commercialization and we expect to expand our innovative technology outside the Swedish boarders.

Planned approach and implementation

This initiative serves as both a multidisciplinary research unit and a showcase. The project will be coordinated by Mälardalen University (MDU), with close involvement and engagement from all project partners. Initially, a research and demonstration unit will be established at MDU where treated water from various sources in the society, for example wastewater treatment plants and industry, will be used for irrigation of leafy greens. Then, through a number of work packages, the project team will accelerate the results into on-site tests in collaboration with industry.