Groningen takes initiative in water transition industry

The water system in Groningen is under pressure from drought, salinization and the growing water demand of industrial companies. To address these challenges, the province of Groningen is taking the initiative in the project "Raising Awareness and Reducing Low Value Water Consumption in Industry". The goal is intensified cooperation between industrial companies and government agencies to promote water transition. The consulting firm Sweco is supporting this project.

Five industrial companies from Groningen, along with water boards, Waterbedrijf Groningen and the province, participated in a role-playing game. This Serious Game showed two scenarios: the effects of climate change and the growth of the hydrogen economy. The importance of cooperation and broader perspectives was emphasized. Measures such as sewage system disconnection and use of industrial water from seawater were shown to have positive impacts on fresh water availability.

The role play led to better understanding of shared challenges and possible solutions. An overarching strategy is needed to take joint action. "We need to work on an integrated water agenda," said Robert Jan Poppen, Site Director Nobian Chemiepark Delfzijl. Knowledge sharing on water conservation is also a focus. Waterbedrijf Groningen produces 50 million m3 of drinking water annually, 20% of which is used by industrial clusters. The province of Groningen is taking this initiative on behalf of the Water Availability Taskforce.

Provinciegroningen.nl