S O L U T I O N S

THREE EVENTS, INNOVATION SHINE IN 2012: LEE KUAN YEW PRIZES

By Steinar Cramer By Howard James

LIVE COVERAGE

DAILY HIGHLIGHTS

Over 3,000 people attended the Joint Opening Ceremony and Welcome Reception yesterday evening, bringing the first day of the Singapore International Water Week, World Cities Summit and CleanEnviro Summit Singapore to a close. Respectively, the events will revolve around water innovations for sustainable and liveable cities, integrated urban solutions for such cities, and provide answers to some of the environmental and waste challenges faced by Asia’s rapidly expanding cities.

Led into the hall by a traditional Chinese dragon dance, the Guest of Honour, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, took to the stage to welcome the delegates of all three events.

“There is one common theme that links these events together: how to develop liveable and sustainable cities, and to build for ourselves beautiful and endearing homes,” said Mr Lee.

The challenge, he noted, is to do so in the face of an unprecedented scale of

urbanisation, driven largely by emerging economies, and in Asia in particular.

“It’s a tremendous time of change, and a tremendous opportunity for development and progress, because cities can be a better habitat for the world’s population. They are economically dynamic, culturally diverse and they can be environmentally friendly,” said Mr Lee.

To achieve this requires proper planning, efficient administration and public support, including support for policies to protect the environment.

Each city confronts these issues in its context. However, as Mr Lee noted, most share similar objectives – a vibrant economy that provides good jobs, a safe and secure environment, good public services, and effective governance. These shared goals mean there are always insights to be gained from others.

Given Singapore’s small size and high population density, sustainability and liveability have always been a vital part

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Mayors Forum

Perspectives: Asit Biswas

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Proceedings from yesterday’s WCS Mayors Forum. What are the biggest challenges facing cities of today? And, how do their leaders plan to overcome these?

Recognising excellence in reduced packaging waste, 16 companies will receive the 3R Packaging Awards in recognition of their efforts.

“The world is currently spending hundreds of million dollars in promoting solutions that have not worked in the past…”

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Harnessing the spirit of innovation, the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2012, along with its counterpart, the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize 2012, celebrates the pinnacles of excellence in fields that contribute to sustainable water and urban development.

The prizes are also in line with Singapore’s vision to promote excellence and thought leadership in the area of urban planning and water management. The award ceremony for both prizes will be held tonight, with Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean as guest of honour.

This year, Professor Mark van Loosdrecht from the Netherlands was awarded the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize 2012 for his breakthrough contributions in creating sustainable solutions in the field of wastewater treatment.

The 2012 Water Prize received 61 nominations from 25 countries, and was awarded to Dr Van Loosdrecht for pioneering an innovative biological process that provides a cost-effective,

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We warmly welcome you to Singapore.

Building a sustainable and liveable environment has always been a national priority for Singapore since our independence. As a small city-state with no natural resources, Singapore has to constantly develop innovative ways to conserve resources and reduce waste in securing a sustainable future and providing a good quality of life for our people. We are on a constant journey to find creative solutions to address various urban challenges, from building the necessary infrastructure, to creating an outstanding living environment for our people. Inventing new innovative solutions and practices to manage escalating urban concerns requires strong partnerships. We are heartened that you have joined us here on this global exploratory platform.

As we face increasing urbanisation and diminishing resources today, environmental and water solutions have become ever more pressing. As we move into the future, what will set cities apart is the extent to which they are able to tap synergies in the water-energy-waste nexus to improve efficiency, reduce waste and lower costs.

The World Cities Summit and Singapore International Water Week, in their third and fifth editions respectively, have established themselves as important features in the global water and sustainability calendar. This year, the inaugural CleanEnviro Summit Singapore joins

in as a third co-located event. The expanded platform underscores the importance and urgency for cities to look for sustainable solutions in urban planning, as well as water, environment and waste management. In fact, it has become increasingly important to address these fundamental issues in a holistic way rather than in isolation.

This year’s integrated platform presents significant opportunities for the exploration of cross-sectoral issues and solutions. Government leaders and industry experts can discuss challenges and share sustainable urban development solutions and best practices with a multidisciplinary perspective, focusing on the

latest innovations in water, urban management and environmental waste technologies.

With the theme “Liveable and Sustainable Cities – Integrated Urban Solutions”, the World Cities Summit 2012 will explore how cities can build resilience and improve their quality of life and environment by adopting integrated solutions to increasingly complex challenges. Key highlights of the event include the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize, In-Focus Forums to explore partnerships between cities, urban solution-providers and investors, and the World Cities Summit Mayors Forum, with leaders from some 100 cities around the world attending.

Singapore International Water Week has enjoyed strong support from the international and local water community. The theme “Water Solutions for Liveable and Sustainable Cities” reinforces the pressing need to integrate sustainable water management strategies into the urban planning process. Through flagship programmes such as the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, Water Leaders Summit, Water Convention, Water Expo, and Business Forums, Singapore International Water Week showcases Singapore’s capabilities and expertise in water management and is a testimony to our standing as a global hydro-hub.

Themed “Innovative Clean Enviro-Solutions for Asia’s Growing Cities”, the inaugural CleanEnviro Summit Singapore has been created as a response to the need for dialogue on how Asia’s rapidly growing cities will overcome the challenges of environmental pollution and waste management. The Summit will also facilitate the sharing of insights on the latest environmental policies and technological trends, as well as generating business opportunities through its plenary sessions and business forums under its three pillar events — Clean Environment Leaders Summit, Clean Environment Regulators Roundtable and the WasteMET Asia conference and exhibition.

We hope you have a rewarding experience with the exciting line-up of programmes at these three global events. We wish you a pleasant and fruitful stay in Singapore.

The proportion of people living in cities around the world is expected to grow to

BY 2050

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Levels of solid waste in Asia will reach

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robust and sustainable way to remove pollutants from used water. This process, entitled Anammox, greatly reduces the overall energy consumption, chemical usage and carbon emissions of a conventional used-water treatment plant.

Describing Dr van Loosdrecht’s Anammox as an “outstanding achievement”, Tan Gee Paw, Chairman of the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize Nominating Committee, believes that the process is “critical for the future sustainability of urbanised cities.”

This year also witnessed the mayor of New York City, Michael Bloomberg, and the city’s Departments of Transportation, City Planning, and Parks and Recreation, being awarded the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize 2012. New York City has demonstrated a remarkable transformation from a city at risk in the post-9/11 era to one

scaling new economic, social and environmental heights. This, together with New York City’s renewed confidence and optimism, are the principal reasons behind the city’s win.

At the press conference and Laureate’s lecture held in Singapore in March this year, Mr Bloomberg shared that teamwork had been the key to the city’s success. He hailed the efforts of the city’s numerous departments in helping to achieve a “greener [and] greater New York”.

Don’t miss the Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize and Singapore Water Lecture to be delivered on Monday, 2nd July from 1.30pm to 3.00pm at Level 5, Sands Grand Ballroom D, Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Center.

Read more about Professor Mark van Loosdrecht’s Anammox journey on page 8.

MONDAY 2nd July 2012

INNOVATION SHINES IN 2012 LEE KUAN YEW PRIZES

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A total of 16 companies are set to receive the 3R Packaging Awards in recognition of their efforts in reducing levels of packaging waste.

The awards are exclusively given to signatories of the Singapore Packaging Agreement (SPA) — an initiative driven by Singapore’s National Environment Agency in tandem with private companies and non-governmental organisations.

These include manufacturers and users of packaging, as well as owners and managers of hotels and shopping malls.

The purpose of the SPA is to reduce waste through optimising packaging production, packaging redesign and increased reuse and recycling of packaging waste. In addition, the SPA is aimed at raising awareness and educating consumers on reducing waste, which is

important since the actions of consumers have a direct impact on the success of the programme.

Over a four-year period spanning July 2007 to June 2011, signatories of the agreement cumulatively reduced about 7,100 tonnes of packaging waste, saving approximately S$14.9 million in production costs of locally consumed products.

The 16 companies will receive the 3R Packaging Awards from Singapore’s Minister for the Environment and Water Resources, Dr Vivian Balakrishnan. The ceremony will take place at the CleanEnviro Summit Singapore/WasteMET Asia 2012 Networking Dinner on 3 July 2012 at Megu Hall, the Singapore Flyer.

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Mr Khaw Boon Wan, Minister for National Development

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for the Environment and Water Resources

RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE IN

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of its development. It has protected nature reserves, built parks and gardens, and cleaned up rivers and waterways.

“We have managed the consumption of scarce resources,” said Mr Lee. “Water, a strategic vulnerability, has been turned into a strength.” This has been achieved by expanding water catchments with new reservoirs, pricing water fully, and developing NEWater technology, to maximise the value of the water it has through reuse.

Marina Bay is a good example of Singapore’s transformation over the past 40 years. Formerly a highly polluted river running into the sea, the area was revitalised through land reclamation, building Marina Barrage, and the creation of Gardens by the Bay. It has been developed

into a bustling business centre and recreation hub. “It is now an icon that all Singaporeans can be proud of and identify with, and think of when we talk of home, of Singapore,” said Mr Lee.

While Singapore offers some good examples of how cities can make themselves more sustainable and liveable, it is by no means resting on its laurels. Mr Lee said there was much to be learned from others, citing New York City, the winner of the 2012 Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize, as an example of how strong leadership and community participation can transform mature cities.

Mr Lee added, “We are determined to continue improving Singapore so that our people live comfortably and pleasantly. This is how we will make Singapore the best home for all of us.”

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Mr Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of Singapore

life. Among the housing plan’s aims, it seeks to develop Da Nang’s service sector, strengthen its high-tech and IT industries, and build a modern, synchronised infrastructure.

Phnom Penh, CambodiaUrban development is the latest outgrowth of Cambodia’s building boom. Phnom Penh’s population of two million needs about 10,000 new housing units annually. The capital recently expanded by incorporating 20 communes from the neighbouring Kandal province. Public facilities were introduced to relieve the need to migrate to the overcrowded city centre. Private investors have also built more than 80 residential complexes, in addition to six new ‘satellite cities’ close to Phnom Penh.

Vancouver, CanadaVancouver, long associated with innovative city planning, consistently creates policies for sophisticated urban development. As a sign of its commitment to creative city building, its urban developers are constantly reinventing ideas in planning, design and liveability. Vancouver is working toward becoming the world’s greenest city by 2020. City planners in Vancouver aim

to maintain the British Columbia city’s reputation for being an inclusive place to live, learn and work in.

Saskatoon, CanadaAs one of the most attractive and liveable cities of Canada, Saskatoon implemented a 10-year strategic plan to help create a sustainable city. An Integrated Growth Plan was launched to develop innovative methods of transit, land use, water and servicing strategy, as well as a high-level vision for Saskatoon’s sustainable growth. The plan also worked to balance the need to keep property tax down, alongside expectations for an increased range of services for people.

The World Cities Summit Mayors Forum provides an exclusive platform for mayors and governors to share best practices on urban solutions and form partnerships on innovative projects. The first day of the forum saw the booklet City Portraits distributed to all delegates. City Portraits aims to highlight key challenges in developing sustainable cities, from environmental trends and social issues to their economic climates.

Overcoming challenges and seizing opportunities, the following four cities have undergone a rapid transformation as they progress towards greater liveability and sustainability.

Da Nang, VietnamSustainable development is motivating Da Nang’s city planners to make it a regional tourism spot and economic hub. The city has introduced new residential areas with better connectivity to the centre of Da Nang, tighter structures, and higher density. In 2004, Da Nang’s People’s Committee made a bold investment of VND15 billion to build 268 new houses, with the intention of relocating families there. Each house, worth VND30 million, is equipped with steel roofs and tile floors. The public housing plan is part of an overall goal of giving the residents a healthy, safe environment and better quality of

Awareness of the complex relationship between water, energy and food security has grown in recent years. Water is needed for almost all forms of energy production; energy is needed to transport and treat water; and producing food requires both energy and water. These are just a few of the linkages in the so-called energy-water-food nexus.

In the coming decades, population growth and social and economic development could cause a demand, supply and environmental crisis that will affect all three. By 2030, water supply could face a 40% shortfall, with the world’s food needs growing by as much as 50%. By 2050, energy demand will be three times greater than it was a mere decade ago. It is therefore critical that we understand the connections between these three stresses, and examine what opportunities and risks they pose. Urban development, population density and infrastructure quality have an obvious impact on the efficiency of energy and water use, and the

availability of land for agriculture. Currently, cities are home to over 50% of the world’s population and are responsible for up to 80% of CO2 emissions. With the proportion of people in cities expected to grow to 75% by 2050, it is clear that cities, and how they are developed, will have a huge influence on the environment and the demand for energy, water and food.

Cities must, therefore, become focal points of innovative solutions for infrastructure, congestion management and green buildings. The sharing of these best practices must be spread internationally. Cities must be compact and connected, with energy-efficient public transport, environmentally friendly buildings and secure access to water and food. They must also integrate transportation, energy, water and waste systems that are much more effective than those of today.

For energy to play its part, it must first tackle the problem of energy loss.

According to research conducted by the International Energy Agency on energy usage in cities, over half of primary energy ends up as low-grade waste heat that is emitted by transport and power generating facilities.

To counter this, waste released from transport could be reduced by means of promoting fuel economy standards, lighter vehicles and electric vehicles, as well as implementing a smarter approach to freight management. From a power generation perspective, Combined Heat and Power (CHP) solutions – such as well-designed

district heating schemes, and the use of more energy-efficient gas-fired power stations – can be employed to significantly reduce waste heat.

However, central to achieving a harmonious water-energy-food nexus is investment and knowledge-intensive innovation. Both of these do not necessarily require new technologies or inventions. Instead, they depend on innovation in design, planning, land use management, increased efficiency, demand and supply integration, and consumer choice.

They also require policy frameworks that both encourage innovative private-sector investment, and provide a degree of regulatory stability in the face of anticipated economic and political volatility.

Between now and 2050, it is estimated that the development of city infrastructure will account for more than US$300 trillion in building and running costs. Close collaboration is required between the multiple stakeholders, including urban planners, local governments, and companies involved in transport, infrastructure, construction, IT and energy. Without it, rapid urbanisation risks leading to chaotic urban sprawl, pollution, the disappearance of fertile agricultural land, and more pressure placed on valuable water and food resources. To achieve a sustainable urban future, tomorrow’s cities will have to rely on close collaboration between private and public sector bodies.

At Shell, we look forward to deeper conversations in forums such as the World Cities Summit. We believe we can be more innovative in tackling these tough challenges together, than we can be separately.

Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize Sponsor Platinum Sponsors

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More than half the world’s population live in cities and the number of people living in slum conditions is increasing each year, and will hit nearly 890 million by 2020. How to navigate the challenges associated with this growth was the focus of discussion, as more than 100 mayors from around the world engaged in lively debate at the World Cities Summit Mayors Forum yesterday.

“Growing cities face many challenges, including a host of issues related to environmental degradation, water pollution, waste disposal and excessive carbon emission,” said the Mayors Forum Chairman, Lee Yi Shyan, Minister of State for National Development and Trade & Industry, Singapore, during the opening plenary session. He cautioned that

unchecked, these issues will “present a set of grave challenges to our vision of better cities and better lives”.These issues and more were discussed by participants in a programme structured around six breakout sessions. Each revolved around a key theme from Singapore’s Centre for Liveable Cities Framework: achieving a high quality of life; maintaining a competitive economy; ensuring a sustainable environment; integrating master planning and development; and dynamic urban governance, as well as a session on building liveable cities. The breakout sessions allowed smaller groups to engage in a focused exchange of ideas and sharing of experiences. With the wide range of issues affecting cities, the importance of integrating planning efforts between all

LARGEST GATHERING OF CITY LEADERS AROUND THE WORLD By Steinar Cramer

WATER, ENERGY AND FOOD SECURITY IN THE

URBAN CONTEXT

CITY PORTRAITS LENDS INSIGHT INTO INNOVATIVE

URBAN DEVELOPMENT

By Jeremy Bentham

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stakeholders was highlighted as a critical factor for success. Australia was held up as a good example in this respect.

“We have a state-level South Australia Strategic Plan that works together with our metropolitan 30-year plan for Adelaide. On top of this, there is a national committee, comprised of the lord mayors of all the capital cities, the prime minister and the leader of the opposition, that meets regularly and formulates a national urban policy,” explained the Mayor of Adelaide, Stephen Yarwood.

In his closing remarks to the Forum, Mr Lee highlighted four ‘C’s as hallmarks of well-planned and sustainable urban development — courage; capacity of municipality and cities; continuity to ensure consistency of policies; and the need to engage the community. He said, “As leaders, we must have the courage to do bold things; the right things. In this way we can build the foundations of good, liveable cities.”

The next year’s Forum will be held in Bilbao, Spain. The city was the winner of the inaugural Lee Kuan Yew World City Prize in 2010.

By Tristan Chan

Vancouver, Canada

Mr Lee Yi Shyan

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TAKING JAPANESE WASTE TECHNOLOGY TO NEW HEIGHTS AND MARKETS

A report last month on the state of municipal solid waste (MSW) around the world predicts a dramatic rise in the amount of rubbish generated by urban residents between now and 2025.

The report What a Waste: A Global Review of Solid Waste Management, estimates the amount of MSW will rise from the current 1.3 billion tonnes a year to 2.2 billion tonnes a year. Much of the increase will come from rapidly growing cities in developing countries.

The annual cost of solid waste management is projected to rise from the current US$205 billion to US$375 billion, with costs increasing most severely in low-income countries.

Dan Hoornweg, Lead Urban Specialist in the Finance, Economics, and Urban Development Department of the World Bank and eco-author of the report said: “The challenges surrounding municipal solid waste are going to be enormous, on a scale of, if not greater than, the challenges we are currently experiencing with climate change. This report should be seen as a giant wake-up call to policy makers everywhere.”

The management of MSW is the most important service a city provides, according to the report. In low-income countries, MSW is often the largest single budget item for cities. A city that cannot effectively manage its waste is rarely able to manage more complex services such as health, education or transportation.

The report also shows that the amount of waste is growing fastest in China (which surpassed the US as the world’s largest waste generator in 2004), as well as other parts of East Asia, and parts of Eastern Europe and the Middle East. There is a direct correlation between the per capita level of income in cities and the amount of waste that is generated. As a country urbanises and populations become wealthier, the consumption of inorganic materials (e.g. plastics, paper, glass, aluminum) increases.

The report argues for an integrated solid waste management plan . Key to such a plan is consultation and input from all stakeholders, including citizen groups and those working on behalf of the poor and the disadvantaged. Public health and environmental protection aspects are also critical.

Waste generated by households and industries poses serious challenges for many growing cities around the world. One convenient and inexpensive solution is to send waste to landfills directly. However, with growing populations, rapid urbanisation, rising transport costs, and competing demands for land use, dedicating large areas to landfills is becoming untenable and unsustainable in many countries. Furthermore, if not properly treated, waste buried in landfills release unwanted substances into the environment, including greenhouse gases and toxins.

Incinerating waste helps to reduce the volume of waste sent to landfills. Energy can also be recovered from the waste incineration process. This process, whilst effective on its own, has the potential to be part of a more integrated and holistic process of waste management.

In Singapore, Keppel Integrated Engineering (KIE) designed, built and operates the Keppel Seghers Tuas waste-to-energy (WTE) plant, Singapore’s fifth incineration plant. One of the most compact WTE facilities in the world, the plant has the

capacity to treat 800 tonnes of solid waste a day, to generate 22 megawatts (MW) of green energy.

As a leader in waste treatment, KIE believes that integrated waste management contributes towards sustainable development. A modern integrated waste management policy is based on a combination of waste prevention and avoidance, maximised recycling, waste reuse and sorting, and energy recovery. Keppel Seghers’ integrated waste management concept splits the fractions of waste into more specific waste streams, allowing optimal energy recovery and reuse. KIE, through Keppel Seghers, also designed, built and operates the landmark Domestic Solid Waste Management Centre (DSWMC) in Qatar. It is the first plant in the Middle East that integrates various technologies to achieve optimal waste management. Notably, it has helped Qatar raise its national recycling rate from 8% to around 20 to 25%, and is able to divert landfill waste by up to 95%. The plant is designed to treat up to 2,300 tonnes per day of mixed domestic solid waste.

Japanese environmental management and recycling solutions company, Dowa Group, provides services in the fields of soil remediation, recycling and waste treatment worldwide. Using extensive experience and technological expertise, the company has developed a long-standing history in Japan and now has operations across East Asia, Europe and America.

The tightening of environmental standards in these regions has encouraged the group to expand its business areas and activities as a global environmental management company. Dowa Group now formulates global environmental management systems to contribute to resource recycling and the reduction of environmental risks, most notably in the area of waste management.

Waste management solutionsThe waste treatment eco-systems pioneered by Dowa Group provide everything from collection and transportation to intermediate and final treatment. The process includes disposal management, which is traceable so customers avoid the risk of illegal disposal and improper treatment.

Dowa Group offers three core eco-system facilities: Eco-system Sanyo, eco-system Akita and eco-system Chiba. All three have obtained licenses as Fluorocarbon Destruction Operators to perform CFC destruction by thermal decomposition using the heat produced by waste disposal. As a result, the systems are highly efficient at the detoxification of CFCs, with more than 99.999 percent degradation. In 1996, the Japanese Ministry of the Environment named the eco-

system Akita as a “model project on CFCs destruction”.

Another benefit to the efficiency of Dowa Group’s eco-systems is that the heat produced by the incineration of waste is turned into energy, resulting in substantial savings. The systems also contribute to overall carbon emission reduction. In 2003, the Dowa eco-systems destroyed 58 tonnes of CFCs, which equates to 130,000 tonnes per year.

Reducing DioxinDowa Group has been working to reduce dioxin, one of the most toxic industrial chemicals used in human history. Up to now, the group has been able to reduce to 1/50th of the established reference value (RV) by using high-temperature incinerators.

Landfill solutionsNot only do Dowa Group eco-systems provide safe and proper remediation technologies, the group also pursues energy optimisation strategies to minimise the environmental impact of its operations.

In December 2004, Dowa Group established Green Fill Kosaka, one of Japan’s largest capacity private sector-controlled landfills, in the northern prefecture of Akita. Dowa Group already operates controlled landfills in Odate, in the same prefecture, which have a total capacity of 2.0 million cubic meters.

An alternative waste disposal technique to landfill is incineration. In April 2008, in the waterfront area of Chiba Prefecture, Tokyo, Dowa Group opened one of Japan’s largest furnaces for disposal of waste materials. Eco-system Chiba’s incinerator for industrial wastes helps to reduce transportation costs and environmental risks.

CITIES FACE SHARP RISE IN WASTE DISPOSAL COST, SAYS NEW WORLD BANK REPORT

TACKLING THE GROWING WASTE PROBLEM

WANT TO BE

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Waste entering the DSWMC facility is separated using Keppel Seghers’ Dano Drum technology. Up to 90% of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, and up to 50% of plastics can be recovered and recycled. Organic waste is composted and the by-product, methane, can be harvested for energy. Then, the end product can be used as soil enhancers in agriculture and landscaping. The residual waste, which cannot be recycled or composted, is sent to the WTE plant to be combusted to recover energy and generate electricity. Lastly, the by-products of the combustion process are treated in-situ at the DSWMC and disposed in engineered landfills.

Integration of technologies deployed in the DSWMC is a complex task requiring in-depth understanding of the technologies, detailed process engineering, and operational know-how. KIE has a proven track record of delivering, installing and operating its technologies across the globe, including in Belgium, Finland, Italy, Sweden, China and Singapore.

Another of KIE’s recent projects is an engineering, procurement and construction contract to build phase one and two of an energy-from-waste (EfW) combined heat and power plant to serve the Greater Manchester region in the UK. With the capacity to treat 750,000 tonnes of waste per year, in addition to a full generation capacity of 70 MW of electricity and 51 MW of heat, the plant will be one of the largest EfW facilities in the UK when completed.

Through its range of integrated waste solutions, KIE is able to offer comprehensive waste solutions, whilst achieving effective life cycle costs, long-term efficiency and environmental sustainability.

BLOWN OVER? Come see the latest technologies at the WasteMET Asia exhibition.

TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS

IN CONVERSATION WITH

HELEN CLARK

Water recycling experts from around the world met on the first day of the Singapore International Water Week (SIWW) to discuss the stigma facing reusable wastewater.

Rapid urbanisation poses many challenges for cities around the world, but none are more pressing than the need for sustainable water sources. Despite the fact that the technology to turn sewage and wastewater into drinkable water has existed for decades, a long-standing stigma prevents many governments and water recycling organisations from gaining public acceptance.

Experts from organisations such as CH2M Hill, PUB, the International Water Association, and the WateReuse Association gathered to discuss how the industry could alter this perception.

New technologies and processes were discussed, including resource recovery, whereby water plants must find sustainable ways to extract nutrients such as phosphorous, and the level of investment in water recycling technologies. However, the poor perception of wastewater dominated the discussion.

The need to educate the public and rebrand wastewater was lamented as a key industry failing. “It should not be branded as wastewater,” said Linda Macpherson, reuse communications expert from CH2M Hill. “It should be judged on its quality not its history. We have branded it poorly; we have stigmatised it, and it’s time to change mindsets.”

Singapore’s NEWater Visitor Centre is a good example of good water reuse practices, along with Orange Country in the US, where a lot of work has been done to change public opinion of reusable water. Yap Kheng Guan, Senior Consultant at PUB said, “Water is so precious in Singapore. We have lots of programmes to educate people.”

The panel called for a change in the language used to promote wastewater. Ian Law, Inaugural Chair of the Research Advisory Committee of Australian Water Recycling Centre of Excellence (AWRCE) argued that: “Perhaps we need to say ‘resource recycling plant’ rather than ‘sewage’.”

He also called for water plants to encourage the public to visit in order to see it as a clean environment.

Change and opportunity were the central theme to yesterday’s keynote speech and subsequent panel discussion during the opening session of this year’s TechXchange at Singapore International Water Week.

During the keynote address, entitled Re-inventing Water: Current and Future Trends in Water and Wastewater Technologies, Paul O’Callaghan, Founding CEO of BlueTech Research, spoke about how the water industry is entering a “brave blue world”. Technologies, such as those that mine sewage for energy, or that extract phosphorous (a key ingredient for fertiliser) from urine, are prime examples of the industry’s cutting edge. Mr O’Callaghan pointed out that three common themes dominate today’s water industry. Firstly, there are tectonic shifts in the water markets, particularly in the area of acquisitions. Secondly, there are a large number of market entrants. And thirdly, there is an abundance of new thinking happening globally.

Small and medium enterprises are particularly innovative, with some 56% of new technologies emerging from companies where staff numbers are between five and 30. The types of innovations entering the market include locally based technologies and those that gain more from less.

Change, innovation and opportunity were recurring themes during TechXchange. Laura Shenkar, Principal of the Artemis Project, moderated a panel session that included some of today’s leading venture capitalists (VCs) in the field of water technology.

Discussion centred on the types of investment opportunities VCs look for. Two overall conclusions emerged from what was an in-depth debate. Firstly, VCs look for technologies that will make money, and will (ideally) bring returns by as much as tenfold. Secondly, the types of technologies into which they invest will depend on the mandate of each investment company.

For example, David Henderson, Managing Director of XPV Capital, claims his company’s mandate to be fourfold. XPV Capital seeks forms of advanced technology, industry platforms that dominate application use, innovations that use disruptive business models, and opportunities in these areas that span all corners of the world.

Steve Kloos, Partner at True North Venture Partners, tends to focus on big ideas that are created by small companies. In particular, Kloos focuses on investing in “game-changing technologies” that exist in the “blind spots” of big companies. Cost effectiveness is also a consideration, and True North Venture Partners seeks innovations that cost around 40% less than incumbents. Sensor technologies are a preferred investment of Helge Daebel, Investment Director of Water at Emerald Technology Ventures, as long as the company does their due diligence from a regulatory perspective.

The session concluded with all three VCs agreeing that without full disclosure of what they were investing into — in particular, how specific ideas and patents work — none would invest a single cent. However, all three panellists agreed that we are living in an era of change and opportunity.

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MONDAY 2nd July 2012

8

Singapore International Water Week 2012 Partners & SponsorsLee Kuan Yew Water Prize Sponsor Founding Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Strategic Partners

The Global Platform For The Sharing And Co-Creation Of Innovative Water Solutions

As the fifth recipient of the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize, Professor Mark van Loosdrecht is recognised for pioneering Anammox, an innovative biological process that provides a cost-effective, robust and sustainable way to remove unwanted pollutants from used water.

The use of Anammox shortens the conventional used water treatment process. The pollutant ammonia in used water is converted to harmless nitrogen gas, bypassing an intermediate nitrate

form that occurs when used water is treated in the conventional process.

At the heart of the Anammox process is a unique group of bacteria that possesses a set of enzymes that enable the bacteria to convert ammonia into harmless nitrogen gas. This results in a significant reduction in the energy consumption in used water treatment

In the 1990s, researchers at the Delft University of Technology, the

Netherlands, discovered the group of bacteria responsible for this conversion process. Dr van Loosdrecht then devised the engineering tools and systems to allow the natural properties of these bacteria to be harnessed. His groundbreaking work marrying nature and engineering has formed the basis for many variants in use today.

“I am truly humbled to receive one of the most prestigious awards recognised in the water industry and among our profession. With this award, I am further encouraged to ensure that my technologies and research will continue to help create more sustainable solutions that are applicable to our modern world while protecting the quality of precious water,” said Dr van Loosdrecht.

WHEN NATURE MEETS ENGINEERING

By Lois Avery

CHALLENGING THE PERCEPTION OF REUSABLE WASTEWATER

WATER NEWS

Sembcorp Water Technology Prize winners unveiled during Singapore International Water Week Bukit Panjang Government High School was announced the winner of the Sembcorp Water Technology Prize 2011/2012 at the Young Water Professionals Networking Reception.

WE ARE LIVING IN A

TIME OF CHANGE AND OPPORTUNITY, AGREE WATER EXPERTS

60-SECOND INTERVIEW WITH

LAURA SHENKARBy Howard James

Laura Shenkar is the Principal of The Artemis Project, a water management consultancy firm, and one of today’s leading experts in advanced water technology and its potential for commercial operations. She moderated one of the panel sessions at TechXchange.

Solutions: In your view, where are the most pressing areas of water management today?

Laura Shenkar: There are three big areas. First, smart grid and how water companies can make existing dumb water systems smart. Second, on-site water purification and treatment, because we really need to get around central infrastructure. And, finally, resource recovery.

Resource recovery is a particularly hot topic at present, as the world is looking at wastewater as a valuable resource, and also a means of handling excessive levels of waste. Among the water community, wastewater is now deemed to be as valuable as gold.

Today, there are companies that can mine sewage or refine it like oil. There are companies that can create concrete out of the discharge that’s created during desalinisation, and there are companies that can create electricity out of sewage. The introduction of such technologies is one of the key drivers behind the TechXchange Workshop here at Singapore International Water Week.

It is also worth noting that in China, every RFP (request for proposal) for new water treatment plants include ZLD (zero liquid discharge)

as a mandatory requirement. This is because they have no place left for waste.

However, one can talk generally about areas such as on-site treatment or smart grid, but from an investor’s perspective the key question is how to make money from these ideas. And, one doesn’t become a Google overnight. This is another key driver behind the TechXchange Workshop, as inventors and investors are brought together to share their views on the commercial viability of a particular water technology.

Many of the world’s cities now have water infrastructure that is over 100 years old. What can be done to ensure they are problem-free?

An ageing infrastructure is also a problem for many parts of the world. London, for example, uses pipes from Roman times. Yet, it turns out these pipes work quite well and it is the newer ones that are having leakage and durability troubles. In my opinion, the only way to overcome this is to walk away from it all and rebuild a city’s water infrastructure from scratch.

Why is SIWW the perfect place for water investors and start-ups?

Singapore is a hub for water technology in Asia. Within 700 miles (1,100 kilometres) of Singapore, a young company can access half of the population of the world. Most of the Top 50 companies that are achieving strong growth are focusing their business development upon Asia. SIWW is a unique event for those leading advanced water tech companies and the investors who want to invest in them — it brings together the leading water authorities and water equipment companies.

Paul O’Callaghan

TODAY’S HIGHLIGHT

15.30-17.30

WATER CONVENTION

POSTER PRESENTATION

Pre Function Area, Level 3

PUB and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology sign MOU

PUB, Singapore’s national water agency, and the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on joint research and development in water technologies. The focus areas of the R&D include desalination and water reuse technologies.

Solutions: Acclaimed as one of very few truly innovative thinkers in the water area, what, in your view, are the real water problems of the world?

Asit Biswas: The world is currently spending hundreds of million dollars in promoting solutions that have not worked in the past, are not working at present, and there is no hope that they will work in the future. In a sense, we have become part of the problem, rather than the solution. Thus, the water profession needs to change its mindset urgently.

In my view, the most critical problem the water profession is facing at present is how we can put water at the centre of national and international political agendas. We in the water profession believe that water is one of the most important issues in the world. We as a people have to learn that water is a means to an end, and the end is not efficient water management. The ends are better quality of life and poverty alleviation.

We have to show to our planning and finance ministers that if water is properly managed it could be an engine for economic development and can contribute to higher standards of living and better environmental

quality. Only then will water become an important component of national and international political agendas.

If water remains a minor actor in the wings, as it is at present, progress to develop it as a resource will remain incremental at best. This is one of the most important challenges the water profession is facing at present. It is critical that water is inserted into the political agenda, an issue completely neglected at present.

Do you think we have enough water in the world to meet the needs of nine billion people by 2050?

The world is not running out of water. We have enough water to meet our current and foreseeable needs. However, what we have at present is somewhat mediocre water management practices in nearly all the countries of the world. Equally, we are not managing other sectors like food or energy properly, which need tremendous amounts of water. In my view, in many countries that are becoming important economic powerhouses, water management practices continue to be seriously substandard.

We have had the necessary knowledge, technology and funds to improve

water management practices for years, but we have spectacularly failed to do so for three very important reasons. First, the absence of political will. Second, people in most countries have become so used to poor-quality water management that they do not think better management is possible. And third, the water profession and the media have implicitly accepted this poor status quo.

Assuming we do manage to improve our water management practices, there is no reason why there should not be adequate water to meet all human needs up to 2050 and beyond. Fortunately, I see some progress. A city like Phnom Penh can now provide clean and safe drinking water to all of its citizens 24 hours a day. I am thus cautiously optimistic about the world’s water future.

What are some of the biggest water challenges facing emerging markets such as Southeast Asia and Latin America?

In South Asia – whose population is more than 1.65 billion – one would be hard-pressed to find a single town where people can drink water directly from the source without worrying about health risks. In fact, globally, there are over two billion people who

do not have access to clean and safe water. UNICEF and WHO estimates claim that “only” 783 million people do not have access to “clean” water. This is a travesty of truth.

Similarly, in emerging markets, sanitation has only been applied to the removal of wastewater from homes. Yet, cities such as Delhi and Mexico City discharge untreated wastewater into their rivers and claim to have proper sanitation. The Third World Centre for Water Management estimates that only about 10% of people in Latin America have access to proper wastewater collection, treatment and disposal systems. The Centre estimates that Asian developing countries have a similar level of treatment as in Latin America, and Africa somewhat less.

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Following two decades of burgeoning economic growth accompanied by reforms and increased globalisation, India is undergoing rapid urbanisation.

Around 30% of the nation’s citizens live in cities and towns, with India’s urban population set to increase to approximately 900 million by 2050, from around 360 million today. This means that not only do existing towns and cities need to greatly expand, but new cities will also need to be built.

By 2031, the pace of urbanisation will mean that no fewer than 68 cities in India will have populations of more than one million, and there will be 13 cities with a population of more than four million. There will also be six megacities with populations of more than 10 million.

The scale of India’s urban development will create both

challenges and opportunities. Challenges include the building of new housing and provision of basic amenities such as water, sanitation, power, mobility and transportation. The key to successfully managing this growth lies in a combination of increased investment, robust governance and financing, sustainable planning, and a comprehensive capacity building programme at all levels of government.

In addition, increased participation of both the private and public sectors will bring much-needed skills and experience to the development of India’s urban centres, and ensure public buy-in and participation.

To learn more about urban challenges and opportunities in India, visit the World Cities Summit In-Focus forum on India, on Tuesday, 3rd July, from 11.00am to 12.30pm at the Sands Grand Ballroom J.

Indonesia’s waste market is making progress. Until recently, the country’s management of solid waste had been characterised by rapidly increasing volumes of waste, which has outstripped its collection and logistics systems and treatment facilities.

This is all starting to change. Indonesia’s adoption of a more robust approach to waste management includes the introduction of the nation’s “waste banks” initiative to encourage recycling, and the province of Jakarta’s commitment to both multi-node waste collection and waste-to-energy technology.

Residents of Indonesia are encouraged to recycle, as they receive money for every item that gets recycled. The waste banks also employ over one million people, and the recycled material eventually gets sold to manufacturers. Thus, the nation’s planners have both mitigated Indonesia’s solid waste problem and further boosted its economy and job market. According to Indonesian Environment Minister Balthasar Kambuaya, the waste banks generate over RP1.7 billion (US$183,600) annually.

Jakarta’s 2012–2032 Waste Management Master Plan covers waste reduction targets, quality improvement strategies, and coverage of sanitation services. It also includes

the provision of new facilities and infrastructure, community participation, regional cooperation, the use of environmentally friendly technologies, and plans to build multiple waste management facilities within the city. Furthermore, the city intends to use waste as a resource to create electricity and compost for agricultural purposes.

A spokesperson from the Indonesia Solid Waste Association said the proposed plans would be used as a reference point for plans on a national level.

As ASEAN’s most populous nation, waste management remains the greatest challenge to Indonesia’s commitment to improving the environment. Indonesia has ratified the Kyoto Protocol of 2004. The country must, therefore, reduce its greenhouse emissions, which includes gases that are released by landfills. Indonesia is continuing to develop its systems for storage, collection, transporting and — in particular — the treatment of solid waste. To learn more about Indonesia’s waste market, attend the business exchange session on Indonesia on Wednesday, 4th July, from 2.30pm to 4.00pm, at Level 1, Hall A, Sands Expo & Convention Center, Marina Bay Sands.

INDIA’S RAPID URBANISATION: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

JAKARTA MASTER PLAN PROVIDES BLUEPRINT FOR NEW INDONESIA WASTE POLICY

India’s population growth, rapid urbanisation, and increasing industrial, agricultural and irrigation activities have intensified the demand for sustainable water supply. Recent reports estimate that less than 30% of domestic sewage is treated in Indian towns and cities, and about 26.5 million cubic metres per day of untreated wastewater is discharged into rivers and coastal waters. Against this backdrop lies a concomitant need for India to rethink the management of its water resources in a more flexible, prudent and environmentally sustainable manner.

In September 2011, the government of India announced its 12th Five-Year Plan, which described its policy direction for the period spanning 2012 to 2017. Notably, the plan highlighted

India’s need to tackle the issue of non-revenue water — which currently stands at 54% — through public-private-partnership (PPP) initiatives. As a result, vast opportunities await investors in the area of municipal water supply systems and wastewater treatment plants that serve India’s growing cities and underserved rural population.

A recent report published by Global Water Intelligence stated that 2012 looks set to be a vibrant year for PPPs in India, as new initiatives are set to boost the pipeline of water and wastewater projects. An example of such a project can be seen in the central Indian city of Nagpur. The Nagpur Municipal Corporation teamed up with Veolia Water India and Vishvaraj Environmental to provide a

continuous supply of drinking water to over 2.7 million residents for 24 hours of the day, as opposed to just 12 hours, which is the norm in India. The project will include the constant supply of water to approximately 900,000 slum inhabitants.

India’s urban population is forecasted to increase from 377 million today to over 600 million by 2031. With more cities expected to bring projects into the market, the opportunities for investment are manifold.

For more information on water investment opportunities in India, attend the India Business Forum on Tuesday, 3rd July, from 2.30pm to 5.30pm, at Level 3, Heliconia 3411, Sands Expo & Convention Center, Marina Bay Sands.

PERSPECTIVES: DR ASIT BISWAS

VIBRANT YEAR FOR PPPS IN

INDIA

RECORD NUMBER OF GLOBAL LEADERS ATTEND SUSTAINABLE CITIES EVENTS IN SINGAPORE

COUNTRIES IN FOCUS BY HOWARD JAMES

Some 15,000 international leaders, experts and delegates – including more than 100 mayors, governors, ministers and government officials – assembled at the Sands Expo and Convention Center yesterday for the opening day of the third World Cities Summit, fifth Singapore International Water Week and first CleanEnviro Summit Singapore. Among the dignitaries were former New Zealand Prime Minister and now Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme, Helen Clark, and India’s Minister of Urban Development, His Excellency Kamal Nath.

Stretching till 5 July, the event is a platform for over 900 companies from sectors such as water, energy and waste to showcase their newest innovations and cities’ best practices across the indoor exhibition’s sprawling 26,000-square-metre space. They also get the chance to pitch integrated solutions to sustainable cities in addition to water and environmental technologies.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the interviewee and not necessarily those of the organiser or Solutions.

MONDAY 2nd July 2012 Sands Expo & Convention Center, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore

Leaders from 11 Asian cities are in Singapore to attend the Centre for Liveable Cities’ inaugural Temasek Foundation Leaders in Urban Governance Programme, which is co-located with the World Cities Summit 2012. Participants attended the closing ministerial dialogue and dinner, hosted by Singapore’s Minister for National Development, Mr Khaw Boon Wan, at the Pinnacle@Duxton, the city’s tallest public housing

development. In the photo, from left to right (back row) are Mr Zhong Mei Shi (Foshan, China), Mr Ranawaka Janaka (Sri Jayawardenapura Kotte, Sri Lanka), Mr Yue Xiu Hu (National Development and Reform Commission, China); Mr Vongsavanh Thepphachanh (Luang Prabang, Laos), Mr Ilham Arief Sirajuddin (Makassar City, Indonesia), Mr Rohan Seneviratne (Sri Lanka), Mr Khoo Teng Chye (Executive Director, CLC), Mr B. Ramanjaneyulu (Visakhapatnam, India); (front row) Dr Liu Thai Ker (Chairman, CLC), Mr Dhanasiri Amarathunga (Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka), Minister Khaw, Datuk Abang Abdul Wahap (Kuching North, Malaysia) and Dr Cheong Koon Hean (CEO, Housing & Development Board, Singapore).

Chief Executive Officer: Rosemarie Wallace

Managing Director: Simon Cholmeley

VP Custom Content: Paul Coleman

Design Director: Kevin Ong

Senior Designer: Khairunnisa

Contributing Designer: Tin Manasan

Production & Distribution: Kwan Gek Lian Lim Ling Ling

Project Manager & Sustainability writer:

Howard James

Editor: Joseph Jones

Sub Editor: Josephine Pang

Writers: Lois Avery

Steinar CramerEunice Lew

Address:77B Amoy Street

Singapore 069896Tel: +65 6223 7149

simonc@novusasia.com

MONDAY 2nd July 2012

12

SOLUTIONS Published by

WATER CONVENTION WORKSHOP 4WATER SAFETY PLANNING FOR SMALL COMMUNITY WATER SUPPLIES

1 Principal Water Quality Adviser of South Australia’s Department of Health, David Cunliffe, and Technical Officer of WHO Switzerland Jennifer De France

2 Dr Robert Bos of WHO Switzerland

3 (from left) Ms De France, PUB’s Assistant Chief Executive (Operations) Tan Yok Ghin, moderator and General Manager of Remote Operations at Australia’s Power & Water Corporation Darryl Day, and Dr Bos launch the new “Water Supply Planning for Small Community Water Suppliers: Step-By-Step Risk Management Guidance for Drinking-Water Supplies in Small Communities” manual.

4 Deputy Director of Planning Frameworks in the Republic of South Africa’s Department of Water Affairs, Stephen Marais

TEMASEK FOUNDATION LEADERS IN URBAN GOVERNANCE PROGRAMME

21

3 4

“The most important thing about the CleanEnviro Summit

is that delegates exchange their experiences and talk about their

visions for the future.”Che-Ping Sherman Fong,

Environmental Protection Department, Hong Kong SAR

“My work involves policies and regulations. The lessons learnt from other countries regulatory experiences will be important in helping to reduce pollution.”Inar Ichasana Ishak,Ministry of Environment, Indonesia

FROM THE FLOOR

“Sanitation is a really important issue in Nigeria and other parts of Africa. I hope

that CleanEnviro Summit will allow people to share their expertise on this

and other issues.”Dalhatu Altaji Shehu,

Commission for Environment, Sokoto State Government, Nigeria