**Water pollution is not a localized issue and so it must be treated wherever it is found to safeguard the health of current populations and ecosystems, as well as a fundamental obligation we owe to future generations.** **This is why we make it our mission to help our customers avoid emitting pollution from the onset; to create technologies that reduce water pollution at source; treat chemicals that are used in manufacturing processes; and champion sustainable water practices across the board.** **We believe treating water pollution is not optional but vital for our future.** [CONTACT US TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN HELP](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/contact) From [industrial wastewater](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/applications/industrial-wastewater-treatment) to [municipal wastewater](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/applications/municipal-wastewater), [drinking water](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/applications/drinking-water), [groundwater and soil](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/applications/groundwater-treatment), pollutants such as pesticides, bacteria and active pharmaceutical ingredients all pose significant risks. New regulations to safeguard human health and the environment have far-reaching implications for all our customers, from the [pharmaceutical](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/core-markets/pharmaceutical-cosmetics), [mining](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/core-markets/mining) and [food and beverage](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/core-markets/food-beverage) industries to [municipalities](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/core-markets/municipal). All markets have a role to play in successfully depolluting and preventing the spread of pollutants as part of sustainable water management best practices. Additionally, amid rising public concern for the environment, addressing issues like [micropollutants](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/applications/treating-micropollutants), including PFAS — also known as forever chemicals —, is not just morally imperative but also smart business. Customers and stakeholders increasingly demand corporate efforts to minimize environmental impact At Veolia Water Technologies, we recognize these challenges and we are committed to global efforts to tackle pollution. We believe addressing water pollution is an economic necessity, a public health priority and, lastly, it is a fundamental responsibility we owe to the generations that will inherit this planet from us. Our latest report explores five initiatives that are helping to decrease, regulate and mitigate pollution. **Key trend #1**: Multitude of micropollutants **Key trend #2**: Rise of forever chemicals **Key trend #3**: Public concern over environmental issues **Key trend #4**: Human health consequences **Key trend #5**: Increasing environmental regulations This report serves as a resource for stakeholders seeking to understand and contribute to the global efforts to combat pollution and create a more sustainable future. [ ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/default/public/image/2024/01/2024%20Treating%20pollution%20report%20Download%20button2_EN.jpg.webp?itok=CKVs-cRt) ](https://eu1.hubs.ly/H07NGKW0) #### Discover some of our customers who are contributing to the global effort to tackle pollution ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/show_case_card/public/image/2024/01/shutterstock_361751813.jpg.webp?itok=L5vfuuD5) Switzerland A multi-barrier system tackles micropollutants in Switzerland Lake Geneva, which provides 70 million cubic meters of water to residents and holidaymakers, faces a challenge of micropollutants in its water. To combat this issue, a consortium led by experts from [OTV](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.fr/fr?__hstc=42944314.90a098009dd80aa395e9341fd33996d6.1688485898088.1705577644928.1705586770090.371&__hssc=42944314.2.1705586770090&__hsfp=2233890530) — a subsidiary of Veolia Water Technologies — has implemented a multi-barrier system. The system includes advanced oxidation, activated carbon treatment, ultrafiltration and nanofiltration to effectively treat micropollutants. This new plant will be the first of its kind in Europe and will exceed regulatory requirements. [DOWNLOAD OUR TREATING POLLUTION REPORT](https://eu1.hubs.ly/H07NGKW0) ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/show_case_card/public/image/2024/01/shutterstock_2191882257.jpg.webp?itok=bbcEJmMB) Australia The catch-22 of electric vehicles and lithium production The global rise in electric vehicle (EV) sales has led to increased demand for lithium, a crucial component in EV batteries. However, the lithium mining process and production have environmental consequences. In Australia, one lithium producer is implementing zero liquid discharge (ZLD) to avoid discharging lithium into groundwater. Our [Evaled™](https://www.veoliawatertechnologies.com/en/solutions/technologies/evaled) evaporator system is used as a third step in the process to separate and concentrate lithium from water, reducing the operational footprint and preventing lithium discharge into the environment. [DOWNLOAD OUR TREATING POLLUTION REPORT](https://eu1.hubs.ly/H07NGKW0) ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/show_case_card/public/image/2024/01/Untitled%20design%20%281%29_0.png.webp?itok=GuhfNqW9) Vietnam Tackling contaminated soil from the Vietnam War During the Vietnam War, the use of Agent Orange herbicide caused long-lasting soil contamination. Generations later, millions of people in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos continue to suffer from health issues. In 2012, a collaborative effort between the Vietnam Ministry of Defense and the United States Agency for International Development was launched to remediate contaminated soil near Da Nang airport. Our experts from [Krüger](https://www.kruger.dk/english/about-us) — a subsidiary of Veolia Water Technologies — utilized In-Pile Thermal Desorption (IPTD) to evaporate and degrade dioxins, successfully meeting cleanup standards within 20 months and creating safe soil for reintegration into the environment. [DOWNLOAD OUR TREATING POLLUTION REPORT](https://eu1.hubs.ly/H07NGKW0) ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/show_case_card/public/image/2024/01/2.jpg.webp?itok=lnMcFoA3) Latvia JSC Grindex takes action to meet regulations Latvian pharmaceutical company JSC Grindex has taken proactive steps to ensure it continues to meet regulatory standards and address the challenge of active pharmaceutical ingredients in wastewater as regulations evolve. They have implemented a five-stage moving bed biofilm reactor (MBBR) process, specifically designed for the degradation of difficult-to-degrade organic compounds and nitrogen removal. [DOWNLOAD OUR TREATING POLLUTION REPORT](https://eu1.hubs.ly/H07NGKW0) ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/default/public/image/2024/01/2024%20Treating%20pollution%20report%20Vox%20Pop%20Arnaud%20Valleteau%20EN.jpg.webp?itok=5OJJWb-C) ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/default/public/image/2024/01/2024%20Treating%20pollution%20report%20Vox%20Pop%20Anne%20Abraham%20EN.jpg.webp?itok=v5KgMqns) ## Technologies Technologies that help treat pollution [ ![EVALED Evaporation technologies](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2019/01/Evaled-Push.jpg.webp?itok=A8AfFE3V) ](/en/technologies/evaled-archived "Evaled™") [Evaled™](/en/technologies/evaled-archived "Evaled™") Evaporation technologies for wastewater treatment, water reuse and zero liquid discharge (ZLD), waste volume and disposal cost reduction, and by-products recovery. [LEARN MORE](/en/technologies/evaled-archived) [ ![Wasserklärung in Actiflo-Anlage von Veolia](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2021/11/wasserklaerung-actiflo-cp.jpg.webp?itok=xmZuoynC) ](/en/technologies/actiflo-carb "ACTIFLO® Carb") [ACTIFLO® Carb](/en/technologies/actiflo-carb "ACTIFLO® Carb") The Actiflo® Carb process combines the features and the efficiency of Actiflo®. [Read more](/en/technologies/actiflo-carb "ACTIFLO® Carb") [ ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2019/03/1542x528%20Wave%20%282%29.jpg.webp?itok=S_bL4nPk) ](/en/solutions/technologies/exeno "eXeno™") [eXeno™](/en/solutions/technologies/exeno "eXeno™") eXeno™ is a solution for an effective and economic friendly biological removal of drug residues in wastewater. [Read more](/en/solutions/technologies/exeno "eXeno™") [ ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2024/01/Opacarb-FL.jpg.webp?itok=5PArQfkR) ](/en/solutions/technologies/opacarb-fl "Opacarb™ FL ") [Opacarb™ FL ](/en/solutions/technologies/opacarb-fl "Opacarb™ FL ") Opacarb™ FL is a compact process, low in energy and chemical reagents that leaves no trace of carbon in the sludge. [Read more](/en/solutions/technologies/opacarb-fl "Opacarb™ FL ") ## Applications Applications that help mitigate pollution [ ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2023/10/PFAS.jpg.webp?itok=aBcnEwc9) ](/en/applications/treating-micropollutants "Treating micropollutants") [Treating micropollutants](/en/applications/treating-micropollutants "Treating micropollutants") Advanced treatment of micropollutants for both industrial and municipal markets. [Read more](/en/applications/treating-micropollutants "Treating micropollutants") [ ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2023/04/Municipal-wastewater.jpg.webp?itok=Kq3O3Wjb) ](/en/applications/municipal-wastewater "Municipal wastewater treatment") [Municipal wastewater treatment](/en/applications/municipal-wastewater "Municipal wastewater treatment") Optimized management of effluents and wastewater. [Read more](/en/applications/municipal-wastewater "Municipal wastewater treatment") [ ![Two workers wearing helmets, masks and gloves in a wastewater treatment plant. © Médiathèque VEOLIA - Jérôme Sevrette / ANDIA](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2022/05/VEOLIA_StJeanLaPoterie_JeromeSevrette_Andia_52.jpg.webp?itok=HYuWBupL) ](/en/applications/industrial-wastewater-treatment "Industrial wastewater treatment") [Industrial wastewater treatment](/en/applications/industrial-wastewater-treatment "Industrial wastewater treatment") Technologies, services and process expertise to meet environmental requirements, remove contaminants and transform wastewater into a resource. [Read more](/en/applications/industrial-wastewater-treatment "Industrial wastewater treatment") [ ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2023/02/Groundwater-remediation.png.webp?itok=OrlMS181) ](/en/applications/groundwater-treatment "Groundwater remediation") [Groundwater remediation](/en/applications/groundwater-treatment "Groundwater remediation") A full range of technologies ensuring high performance groundwater treatment and groundwater remediation. [Read more](/en/applications/groundwater-treatment "Groundwater remediation") ## Services Services that help decrease pollution [ ![Woman checking plant's machinery - wearing safety hat and glasses.](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2022/07/Content%20push%20%28298%C2%A0%C3%97%C2%A0229%C2%A0px%29%20%287%29.png.webp?itok=0eYKVD6a) ](/en/aquaservice "Aquaservice™") [Aquaservice™](/en/aquaservice "Aquaservice™") A comprehensive range of service offerings with bundled packages for optimum performance and peace of mind. [LEARN MORE](/en/aquaservice) [ ![Hubgrade make your ressources smarter banner ](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2021/12/210394_VWT_CORPOC_HUBGRADE_web_banner_1542x528.jpg.webp?itok=WzQfipvd) ](/en/hubgrade-digital-solutions "Hubgrade digital solutions") [Hubgrade digital solutions](/en/hubgrade-digital-solutions "Hubgrade digital solutions") A combination of digital tools and Veolia expertise that make all your water processes smarter, safer and more sustainable. [LEARN MORE](/en/hubgrade-digital-solutions) [ ![Service man controlling valves](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2019/06/Service.jpg.webp?itok=E5-W4Usp) ](/en/services/installed-base-services "Installed Base Services") [Installed Base Services](/en/services/installed-base-services "Installed Base Services") Providing best-in-class water treatment services tailored to your exact needs to optimize the operational performance of your facility. [LEARN MORE](/en/services/installed-base-services) [ ![](/sites/g/files/dvc3601/files/styles/content_push_teaser/public/image/2024/01/shutterstock_1134286673_0.jpg.webp?itok=rHDlJ1nU) ](/en/water-service "Water as a Service") [Water as a Service](/en/water-service "Water as a Service") An innovative water subscription service that provides a comprehensive solution for customized water treatment and management. [Read more](/en/water-service "Water as a Service") ## FAQ ### What is the impact of water pollution? Water pollution has far-reaching impacts on the environment, human health and economies. It disrupts ecosystems, contaminates drinking water sources, harms marine life and has adverse effects on human health, including the spread of waterborne diseases and long-term health problems. Water pollution also has economic consequences by disrupting industries and requiring costly treatment and remediation efforts. Additionally, it hinders recreational activities and poses risks to vulnerable populations. Addressing water pollution is essential for protecting ecosystems and human health, and for sustainable water resource management. ### What are PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances)? PFAS, which stands for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are a group of human-made chemicals that have been widely used in various industries and consumer products for decades. Also known as “forever chemicals”, they are resistant to heat, water and oil, making them useful for applications such as non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing and firefighting foams. However, PFAS are persistent in the environment and have been found to accumulate in the human body. They are associated with various health risks including developmental issues, liver damage, immune system dysfunction, and an increased risk of certain cancers. Due to their persistence and potential harm, there is growing concern and regulatory action to monitor and reduce the use of PFAS in order to protect human health and the environment. ### Is there a global regulation to treat water pollution? While there is no singular global regulation specifically dedicated to treating water pollution, there are international agreements and frameworks that aim to address water pollution on a global scale. For example, the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants and the International Maritime Organization's International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, are provisions and regulations aimed at preventing and reducing water pollution. Moreover, many countries have their own national laws and regulations in place to manage and treat water pollution, which are often tailored to their specific environmental and societal needs.