Turn water into an asset for your business

VITO’s water services at Cleantech Xpo in Kortrijk

On 8 and 9 October, Kortrijk was entirely dedicated to sustainable innovation. Cleantech Xpo is a brand-new trade fair that focuses on environmental professionals through its themes of energy, materials, mobility and water. For VITO, the debut edition was a special one: it marked the first time that VITO’s research services and the VITO Water Knowledge Centre were represented together.

News Veerle Depuydt 22 October 2025

Water at the heart of cleantech

Challenges related to water availability, rising costs and stricter regulations are becoming increasingly urgent for businesses. That’s why at Cleantech Xpo we showcased our innovative services and tools for water monitoring, reuse and efficiency.

A key pillar in this effort is the VITO Water Knowledge Centre, the go-to contact point for companies looking to implement sustainable water management. Through the Local Energy and Water Demonstration (LED) initiative, SMEs and non-profits can also receive free first-line advice – covering everything from technology choices and subsidies to legislation and opportunities for water saving and reuse.

One company that achieved impressive results is Deknudt Mirror Works from Deerlijk. To optimise their water balance, reduce consumption and lower waste parameters, they turned to the expert guidance of LED Water.

Mirror manufacturer Deknudt saves thanks to LED

Through simple measures, such as detecting and fixing leaks, we were able to save both water and costs right away. Thanks to the collaboration through LED Water, we have managed to reduce our water consumption by 22%.

Steven Degroote

Production manager Deknudt Mirror Works

Smart water management: a necessity and an opportunity

Water can no longer be taken for granted. Companies are increasingly confronted with stricter discharge standards, persistent substances such as PFAS, and uncertain water availability. This calls for a forward-looking approach.

During our session on the first day of the fair, visitors discovered how smart water management not only helps to comply with regulations, but also creates sustainable value and cost savings. Through practical examples, we demonstrated how to:

gain insight into your water flows using tools such as the waterscan and the Water Barometer;
detect risks and opportunities for optimisation;
develop an emergency plan to protect your company against drought or pollution;
prepare for stricter legislation and future challenges.

The message was clear: smart water management is not a luxury, but a necessity.

VITO Kennispunt Water makes water advice accessible

With VITO Kennispunt Water, we lower the barrier for companies to take steps towards smarter water management. We’re ready with a wealth of practical tools and tips to help businesses turn sustainable water use into an asset!