EXPECT BIG WATER/WASTEWATER MARKET

Water and Wastewater Treatment Markets; Growth Drivers, Technology Issues, Key Industry Players, and Global Market Forecasts
Gerald O.J. Armstrong and Clint Wheelock, 3Q 2010 (Pike Research)

"…As the world population approaches 7.8 billion by 2030, the demand for potable water will stress the finite closed-loop water-cycle responsible for supplying freshwater. Geographic markets will need to address the growing demands for water and begin implementing regional water resource supply plans.

"Water availability has the power to cripple economies, suppress personal standards of living, and eliminate…aesthetic qualities…Innovative products and technology, policy making authority, financing, true cost pricing, creative business models, and borderless resource management will drive the public/private water industry strategies…"

click to enlarge

"The emergence of a middle class in developing markets establishes the quality standards associated with economic prosperity…[As seen in] The 'Hierarchy of Global Drinking Water Needs'…With the exception of wealthy oil-rich states in the Middle East, the majority of developing countries are incapable of delivering high-quality water for several reasons. First, no infrastructure exists to provide and distribute high-quality water. Second, it would be difficult to build the infrastructure at a rate equal to the demand rate. Finally, water authorities can reduce debt obligations by shifting the cost of quality treatment to the end user.

"…[O]pportunities exist to be more efficient…but they are dependent on valuing water at its true natural resource price. Until pricing is implemented, no incentives are in place to utilize technological advances in irrigation systems, water reuse initiatives, infrastructure supply and storage, and treating secondary water sources. The projected annual expenditures in the global market are in excess of $90 billion. This rate appears to be sustainable based on demand from population growth, continued industrialization, and agricultural utilization."

click to enlarge

"Several fundamental policy issues will need to be resolved among bordering countries and states regarding water rights for river basins, storage, and conveyance systems to move water within geographical markes…[R]egulating authorities and the private sector…[will need to collaborate on a plan] that recognizes the economic implications of water and provides a legal and equitable platform for all users.

"…[The report] identifies the primary and secondary market drivers that influence current and future market conditions. Lastly, it offers an opinion on the technologies, business models, and policies that will forge a new paradigm for the global water market."