VITO present at the 20th edition of the Aquarama Trade Fair
VITO showcased its water innovation at the end of October during the 20th edition of the Aquarama Trade Fair. Together with the Belgian water technology sector, we had plenty to share. We offered advice at our stand, spoke to the press, organised information sessions, and hosted a cross-sector matchmaking event to share our expertise in sustainable water management.
© FCO Media
Source-oriented approach to tackling pharmaceutical residues in water
The PREWAPHARM matchmaking event made one thing clear: tackling pharmaceutical residues in water starts at the source and requires collaboration.
Hospitals and care institutions face challenges such as costs, limited space and a lack of awareness. Households and combined sewer overflows, on the other hand, need smart combinations of technologies such as membranes, advanced oxidation, adsorption and even wetlands. Experts agreed that technology alone is not enough to create a success story. Clear guidelines, fair incentives and strong partnerships between the healthcare and water sectors are essential.
Together, we can turn these insights into action and build a future-proof, circular water system for Flanders and beyond.
Waterwijzer selects 16 innovative water solutions
During the VLARIO workshop, water innovator Veerle Depuydt (VITO Knowledge Centre Water) and Riet Lismont (VLARIO) presented 16 selected projects being examined within the VLAIO COOCK project Waterwijzer. These projects form the building blocks for a practical tool as well as an inspiration guide.
In selecting the projects, a deliberate choice was made for a broad diversity of building types, ranging from high-rise buildings, sports complexes and hotels to entire residential districts. Attention was also given to a wide variety of water sources, such as greywater and rainwater. The types of solutions vary greatly too: from nature-based systems to collective water approaches, applied both in new construction and renovation projects.
After the plenary session, participants and trade fair visitors were able to view and discuss all the projects in more detail. Anyone seeking more information about Waterwijzer or the selected projects can visit the project page.
Water innovation on the political agenda
At stand 100, VITO put its water innovation firmly in the spotlight. Visitors could meet not only VITO’s water experts but also the water innovators from the VITO Knowledge Centre Water. Our aim was clear: to unlock more value from water. From pilot installations to system models, we are helping to position Flanders as a leading region in water innovation.
During a press moment, Minister Jo Brouns also took the floor. “We must operate within ecological boundaries, but without pushing our companies towards regions where the bar is set lower,” he stated. Karen Vanderstraeten (Programme Manager Water at VITO) emphasised that water challenges remain substantial, but that strong collaborations, shared infrastructure and a clear focus on innovation in Flanders give us enough momentum to tackle them. “We are therefore very pleased with the presence and support of Minister Brouns. His support confirms that the Flemish government recognises that investing in innovation means investing in the future,” she added.
The full press release can be read here.
Fluid Crew, the connecting force in the water sector
Fluid Crew op Aquarama 2025
At Aquarama 2025, Fluid Crew demonstrated why Flanders is at the forefront of water innovation. We showed how our community transforms water challenges into pioneering and integrated solutions. At the stand, visitors experienced the strength of shared expertise between companies, researchers and public authorities. Join Fluid Crew and use your expertise to help position Flanders on the international water map.
