On 1 October, executives, professionals and young professionals from the water sector gathered at the Rijkskwekerij in Baarn for an exclusive event.
With nearly sixty participants – including representatives from 23 drinking water companies and water authorities – we not only celebrated an inspiring day, but also the 30th anniversary of AquaMinerals. A milestone that highlights how cooperation, innovation and circularity create lasting value.
The urgency of this theme has never been greater. In a short period of time, resource management has shifted from a matter of cost reduction to a strategic necessity. Continuity and independence from raw materials now play an equally important role.
Plenary Inspiration
Following the opening by moderator Monique Bekkenutte and Guïljo van Nuland (Chair of the Supervisory Board), four inspiring contributions were shared:
- Sander Mager (Association of Water Authorities) emphasised the necessity of a circular economy for sustainable water management. Security of supply for strategic raw materials makes collaboration inevitable: “Water authorities must act as launching customers and learn together by doing.”
- Riksta Zwart (Waterbedrijf Groningen) demonstrated how cooperation in projects such as WiCE and the Groningen Water Transition leads to circular solutions and alternative sources for industrial water. Connecting, looking ahead and celebrating successes together are central to this approach.
- Pier Oosterkamp (ECOstyle) presented compelling examples of innovative applications of residual streams, such as calcite granules. His message: a residual stream is not an innovation in itself, but through cooperation and further development it can gain unique value.
- Olaf van der Kolk (AquaMinerals) reflected on 30 years of a circular water value chain. Through courage, collaboration and perseverance, both the economic and sustainability value of residual streams have grown substantially. Continuing to work together remains the key.
The Power of Dialogue
At the heart of the event were the interactive break-out sessions. In five groups, participants discussed current dilemmas, including:
- Do we leave circular opportunities to the market, or do we take the lead ourselves?
Are our efforts costs, or investments in the future? - How do we make choices amid an abundance of technologies and possibilities?
- Does resource recovery belong to the core tasks of the water sector?
- Do we dare to truly put circularity first, unless quality or continuity are insufficient?
These conversations generated valuable insights, ranging from sharper prioritisation to the development of shared strategies. The Young Water Professionals concluded with their reflections, adding the fresh perspective of a new generation to the discussion.
Celebrating Success Together
The day concluded with reflection, appreciation for all participants, and a shared celebration of the successes achieved. As a symbolic gesture, participants received Rebottled glasses – made from reused wine bottles and fully aligned with our mission to give residual streams new value.
This day leaves us wanting more. Together with our partners, we are taking the step from awareness to action.
Above all, the day made one thing clear: progress is only possible together. With the power of collaboration, the energy of young talent and the experience within the sector, we are firmly placing the circular water value chain on the map.