LIFE Programme presents its funding opportunities at Aquatech Amsterdam 2023

With over 800 exhibitors and a gathering of 20,000 experts, Aquatech Amsterdam 2023, held from November 6 to 9, is a global hub for water technology. The LIFE Programme had a dedicated stand at the Circular Economy Pavilion. 

At the LIFE exhibition stand, visitors saw the achievements of LIFE BRINE-MINING, a project that transforms coal mining wastewater into a valuable resource, recovering over 90% of the water and minerals. Through innovative techniques and careful resource management, the project demonstrated how it is reducing environmental impacts and brings economic benefits. These include using the reclaimed water for irrigation, the sale of recovered salts, and creation of new jobs. At the stand, visitors also interacted with a LIFE representative, who explained the LIFE Programme and its funding opportunities.  

On 9 November, the LIFE Programme had a 45-minute presentation slot on the Wastewater & Resources World Stage. LIFE SOuRCE and LIFE iBATHWATER delivered presentations on their respective projects which focus on improving water quality for drinking and recreational purposes.  

LIFE SOuRCE aims to develop a low-cost and effective solution for treating groundwater contaminated by PFAS, a group of harmful chemicals that pose a serious health risk to humans and the environment. The project’s goal is to meet or exceed the standards set by the European Drinking Water Directive.  

LIFE iBATHWATER strives to enhance the quality and safety of bathing water at public beaches, by reducing the time needed to detect pollution by 60%. The project uses advanced sensors and data analysis to identify and prevent risks for beachgoers. 

Aquatech Amsterdam 2023 was a successful platform for showcasing the latest innovations and best practices in water technology. The LIFE Programme and its projects contributed to the event’s mission of fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among the water community. 

These LIFE projects support Directive 2000/60 - Framework for Community action in the field of water policy, Directive 2006/7 - Management of bathing water quality and repealing Directive 76/160/EEC, COM(2015)614 - "Closing the loop - An EU action plan for the Circular Economy" (02.12.2015), and Directive 2000/60 - Framework for Community action in the field of water policy (23.10.2000).