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IFAT Brasil 2025 solidifies position as Latin America's leading environmental technology platform and drives sustainable innovation
- 230 exhibitors presented solutions across 22,000 sqm of area
- The show held two stages, technical and live presentations that offered 79 hours of content presented by 217 speakers
- The show featured international pavilions and presentations made by government authorities
São Paulo, July 2025 - IFAT Brasil 2025 successfully concluded its second edition from June 25 to 27 at the São Paulo Expo, with the status of the main Latin American platform for environmental technologies. The event gathered specialists, companies, international trade associations, and government representatives to showcase practical solutions and engage in strategic discussions on vital areas such as water management, sewage, drainage, solid waste, and energy recovery.
with 230 exhibitors showcasing 272 brandsIFAT Brasil recorded nearly 70% growth in the number of exhibiting brands compared to its first edition. . The event spanned 22,000 square meters, including the Live Demo Arena, and welcomed 20,000 attendees from all 26 Brazilian states and 34 countries. In addition to strong domesticfrom all 26 Brazilian states and 34 countries. In addition to strong domestic participation, the event hosted delegations from Argentina, Colombia, Peru, and Paraguay,. as well as international pavilions featuring
representatives from Germany, Austria, China, and the United States. “Once again, we demonstrated that Brazil plays a fundamental role in the region's environmental transition. Gatherings like IFAT Brasil enhance the opportunities in the market and help companies to see beyond their obligations. IFAT Brasil is already a part of the market's innovation and sustainability agenda,” says Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen in Brasil.
Driving the Future of Environmental Management
The International IFAT Brasil Congress deepened debates on environmental challenges and was curated by leading national and international trade associations. It featured two thematic stages: the Blue Stage, focused on water, sewage, and drainage, and the Orange Stage, dedicated to waste management, energy recovery, and circular economy
The congress addressed topics such as the universalization of basic sanitation, waste valorization, and innovative solutions for decarbonizing the economy, while also revealing emerging trends shaping environmental management.
Key discussions highlighted digital transformation, with panels exploring the use of artificial intelligence, process digitalization, and automation applied to water resources and solid waste management. The show also emphasized the role of open innovation and collaboration between startups and large corporations, demonstrating how integrating different agents in the supply chain generates more effective and accessible solutions.
Another central theme was energy recovery from waste, including biogas, biomethane, and green hydrogen; technologies considered crucial for advancing a low-carbon economy in Latin America. Debates on investments, regulatory frameworks, and public policies outlined the necessary path to unlock the region's immense potential for generating clean energy from urban, industrial, and agricultural waste. All content was made available to visitors, underscoring IFAT Brasil's commitment to democratizing access to information and empowering professionals to build a sustainable future for the region.
The event featured a total of 79 hours of content and 217 speakers, representing a 64% increase in national and international professionals sharing knowledge with attendees. The certificate of participation is available on the event website for the pre-registered visitors:. https://ifatbrasil.com.br/en/
Growing International Influence
The success of the second edition reflects the progress and urgency of environmental demands across Latin American countries. The debates were centered on the implementation of the Legal Framework for Sanitation, the growth of renewable energies, and the necessity for integrated environmental management solutions.
IFAT Brasil’s strengthened international standing was also a direct result of an extensive roadshow conducted across various Latin American countries throughout 2025. This initiative brought event representatives and strategic partners to key markets including Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay, fostering closer ties between IFAT Brasil and local trade associations, companies, and governments.
The outcome was evident at this year’s event: an increase in international attendees and an expansion of regional discussions within the congress, firmly positioning IFAT Brasil as the official platform for environmental dialogue on the continent.
“IFAT Brasil is now a mandatory meeting point for anyone seeking innovation and concrete solutions in environmental technologies in Latin America,” said Rolf Pickert. “The growth of our international audience reinforces IFAT Brasil’s strategic position as a link between global expertise and local challenges. We are a space for the collective construction of solutions " .
The event was proudly sponsored by CAIXA and the Federal Government.
Authorities from Brazil,
entities and exhibitors reported positive outcomes and significant business opportunities.:
more info: https://ifatbrasil.com.br.
Eduardo Tavares,
National Secretary for Funds and Financial Instruments, Ministry of Integration and Regional Development
"I would like to congratulate the organization of IFAT Brasil, the most important trade fair in the sector. It brings together technological platforms and companies working in solid waste management, basic sanitation, and other areas related to the environmental agenda and circular economy—topics that represent the new global directives. This is not a future agenda; it is a present one. IFAT Brasil unites companies, institutions, experts, researchers, and technicians in a collaborative environment. We must highlight the major challenge ahead: achieving universal sanitation by 2033. It’s crucial to remember that sanitation is health. Every coin invested in basic sanitation can save up to four coins in public health spending. That’s why IFAT Brasil makes a difference. Its second edition in Brazil, it’s here to stay and will certainly contribute to the advancement of this agenda and the country’s economic and social development."
Fernando Marangoni, Federal Congressman
"I would like to congratulate the organization of IFAT Brasil, the most important trade fair in the sector. It brings together technological platforms and companies working in solid waste management, basic sanitation, and other areas related to the environmental agenda and circular economy—topics that represent the new global directives. This is not a future agenda; it is a present one. IFAT Brasil unites companies, institutions, experts, researchers, and technicians in a collaborative environment. We must highlight the major challenge ahead: achieving universal sanitation by 2033. It’s crucial to remember that sanitation is health. Every coin invested in basic sanitation can save up to four coins in public health spending. That’s why IFAT Brasil makes a difference. Its second edition in Brazil, it’s here to stay and will certainly contribute to the advancement of this agenda and the country’s economic and social development."
Felipe Rene Cardoso, Project Matrix Coordinator, CAIXA
"For me, attending this fair has a double meaning. As a professional, it is a great privilege. I visited many booths, spoke with suppliers, and exchanged knowledge with academics—an enriching experience. As a representative of CAIXA, it is an honor to support the sanitation sector as a sponsor. Congratulations to the organizers—we hope the event returns to Brazil many more times.
Basic sanitation in Brazil still faces many challenges and needs significant investment. Yet, it is one of the largest markets in the world. The fair’s focus on attracting investment to the sector is essential. Brazil has made great strides in PPPs and concessions, and we believe this is the path to unlocking the investments needed.
At CAIXA, we are here to help. We are continuously improving our PPP and concession project structuring, ensuring the market has access to high-quality initiatives and enabling us to resume our traditional role as funders."
Ana Carolina Argolo, Director, National Water and Sanitation Agency (ANA)
"This is a hugely important moment for our country, especially now that the sanitation agenda is finally receiving the attention it deserves—after being overlooked for so long. This progress is vital, even if some adjustments are still needed along the way. We must keep discussing such an essential issue: basic sanitation. ANA embraces this mission so that Brazil becomes a welcoming place for investors. Regulating this sector is indeed a major challenge, which is why participation from all stakeholders is essential to create an increasingly favorable environment as we move toward the finish line. I hope this is just the second of many IFAT Brasil editions and that it continues to receive support from the Federal Government and all partners involved."
Pedro Maranhão, President, Brazilian Association of Waste and Environment (ABREMA)
"This is our second participation in IFAT Brasil, and we have already seen significant progress compared to last year. The event brings together the entire sanitation ecosystem, including solid waste, and offers excellent opportunities for business, networking, and knowledge exchange.
The sector is dynamic and complex: we still deal with open dumps, but we’re also advancing in biogas production. The recent approval of the ‘Fuel of the Future’ program, led by Congressman Arnaldo Jardim, has opened a promising market for biomethane. For the next three years, our focus will be on investments in this area, which represent a decisive step toward decarbonizing the economy."
Luana Pretto, Executive President, Instituto Trata Brasil (TRATA Brazil Institute, a Brazilian institute focused on sanitation and water resources)
"This is our second time participating in IFAT Brasil. We view this international trade fair as extremely relevant, and its presence in Brazil encourages the adoption of new technologies in the sanitation sector—both in water and sewage, as well as in waste management.
We have seen a diverse audience here, with a shared goal of universal sanitation through technological innovation and strategic partnerships, aiming to reach that goal at the lowest possible cost to the population. We are very happy to be part of it and hope to continue supporting progress for those who need it most in Brazil."
Gino Paulucci Jr., Chairman of the Board, ABIMAQ
"ABIMAQ is proud to be represented at this important fair by 36 member companies and to feature a dedicated area for SINDESAM—our sectoral chamber for manufacturers of machines and equipment for basic and environmental sanitation.
Our mission as a sectoral entity is clear: to showcase to sanitation companies the technological capabilities and quality of Brazilian industry. We aim to promote innovation and solutions developed by our members while also contributing institutionally to the continuous improvement of the country’s business environment."
Eduardo Kaiser, Commercial Executive, AMBIPAR
"I believe attending IFAT is very valuable, especially given the number of visitors, suppliers, and participating companies. It generates great momentum for conversations and connections. This fair is key for networking with suppliers and potential clients. Many visitors are looking for solutions and technologies, particularly in water treatment, effluents, and environmental solutions. We welcomed many familiar faces, clients, and new visitors. It’s an important event for our market, especially sanitation, which continues to grow. We’ll definitely be back in 2027. It’s essential for us to showcase our products, services, technologies, and success stories here."
Rosimar Aparecida Jacone, Sales Executive, XCMG Drill Department:
“XCMG Brasil’s debut at IFAT Brasil was positive. The show was very important and highly focused. We received an extremely qualified audience, both from Brazil and from countries like Colombia, Peru, and Chile. This technical and commercial exchange will certainly be reflected in future sales and projects”.
Vagner Espanhol, Business Director, Atlas Copco:
“We were at the show again this year because it is extremely important for our group’s strategy. We have equipment developed for applications in the sanitation market, presenting our technology alongside the main innovative players in the sector. We found this edition very interesting. The space and infrastructure left us very satisfied. We had a strong presence on the second day, with many business opportunities. We definitely want to continue participating in IFAT in future editions”.
Leandro Santos, Technical Salesperson, Steinert:
“The importance of this show for the market in which we operate is enormous. For us, participating in IFAT is non-negotiable: it is a mandatory event due to the level of representativeness and relevance it has in our sector. At IFAT we welcome our current and potential clients, not only to talk about the equipment we already offer, but also to discuss ideas for the future. It almost feels like a talk show — clients share their visions, goals, and dreams. From these conversations, we begin to develop new relationships, new techniques, and, finally, new equipment”.
Rodrigo Demétrio, Technical and Commercial Consultant, Envimat
"It’s essential to be here because this is where people truly care about revaluing waste. It’s not just about proper disposal or management—it’s about giving it new value. The audience here is very focused on those solutions, and for us, it’s a pleasure to present them. IFAT has done a great job promoting our brand and enabling business. On the second day, we could barely leave our stand because it was so busy. We definitely want to return and bring even more solutions next time."
André Camlot, Communication and Marketing Manager, Tequaly:
“Participating in IFAT is a great opportunity for Tequaly to present its turn-key water and effluent treatment solutions. IFAT is a great showcase for our products and services, as well as being a great space to foster proximity and relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders. This year’s experience was very positive. We had good visits to our stand and great business and prospecting opportunities”.
Victor Shin, Sales Coordinator, Deerfos:
“This is our first time participating in the show and it was very good. It brought together many people from the market, always willing to see innovations. So, it’s perfect for exhibitors. We did a lot of networking and prospected many new businesses, in addition to receiving our clients. Being here helps with visibility, so we plan to return next edition”.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to boost the emerging environmental technologies market in Brazil and across Latin America Next Steps:
Following the success of this edition, the organizers are already preparing for the next IFAT Brasil, scheduled for 2027. The expectation is to further expand international participation and strengthen dialogue among companies, governments, and academic institutions.
More information will be released in the coming months on the event's official website: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/en/
About IFAT Brasil:
IFAT Brasil (Brasil’s leading trade fair for water, sewage, drainage and waste recovery solutions) aims to boost the emerging market for environmental technologies in Brazil and across the Latin American region. The event is organized and promoted by Messe Muenchen do Brasil and serves as a connecting platform for various market stakeholders, gathering all solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single environment. The event is recognized for promoting debates on key topics and challenges related to the sector with international specialists.
IFAT worldwide
In addition to IFAT Munich as the world’s leading trade fair, IFAT now comprises eleven trade fairs around the globe, forming the world’s largest network for environmental technologies. The IFAT network includes IE expo China in Shanghai, IE expo Chengdu, IE expo Guangzhou, and IE expo Shenzhen, as well as IFAT Africa in Johannesburg, IFAT Eurasia in Istanbul, IFAT India in Mumbai, IFAT Delhi in New Delhi, IFAT Brasil in São Paulo, and the Singapore International Water Week (in cooperation with IFAT). Starting in 2026, IFAT Saudi Arabia in Riyadh will join the portfolio. Together, the events of the IFAT network act as a driving force advancing the global transformation toward sustainable technologies.
Messe München
As one of the world’s leading trade fair organizers, Messe München presents the world of tomorrow at its around 90 international trade fairs. These include twelve of the world’s leading trade fairs such as bauma, BAU, IFAT, and electronica. Its portfolio comprises trade fairs for capital and consumer goods, as well as for new technologies. Together with its 1,300 employees in the group and the affiliated companies, it organizes trade fairs in China, India, Brazil, South Africa, Turkey, Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Thailand, and the U.S. With an international network of affiliated companies and foreign representatives, Messe München is active worldwide. The more than 150 events held annually attract around 50,000 exhibitors and around three million visitors in Germany and abroad. This makes Messe München an important economic driver, triggering purchasing power effects in the billions.
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IFAT Brasil 2025 establishes itself as a strategic platform for environmental technologies in Latin America.
Endorsed by exhibitors, the three-day event positions itself as the epicenter of debates and solutions for basic sanitation.
Over the past three days, IFAT Brasil 2025 (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions) transformed São Paulo Expo into the epicenter of environmental technologies in Latin America. In its second edition, the trade fair has established itself as an essential platform for professionals and companies seeking solutions in water, sewage, solid waste management, and energy recovery. Concluded this Friday (27), the event fostered strategic discussions and brought together a select audience of specialists and government representatives, reinforcing its central role in the sector.
With 230 exhibitors, an audience from all Brazilian states and every South American country, and 79 hours of high-quality content at the IFAT Brasil 2025 International Congress, along with the Solutions Lounge, Innovation and Startups Arena, and Demonstration Arena, the event brought together in a single space both debates and solutions for basic sanitation—an issue that is critical not only for national infrastructure but also for public health.
For Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the organizer of the event, talking about sanitation means talking about human lives, dignity, and the future of the country. “IFAT Brasil was created to drive this transformation, connecting technology, knowledge, and people around a common purpose. Seeing this ecosystem gathered, engaged, and committed over these three days is proof that we are on the right path to making a difference—not only in the sector but also in society, in Brazil, and throughout Latin America.”
The first edition of IFAT Brasil was held last year. Starting with this edition, the event will become biennial: the next Brazilian edition is scheduled for 2027. With this, the world’s leading IFAT trade fair in Munich (Germany) will alternate with the Brazilian edition—2026 in Munich, 2027 in São Paulo, and so on.
Other attractions
Curated by leading organizations in the sector, the IFAT Brasil International Congress deepened discussions on key environmental topics, including the universalization of basic sanitation, waste recovery, and the decarbonization of the economy. The congress also highlighted the trends that are shaping the future of environmental management.
In addition, the event featured the Blue Stage auditorium, dedicated to water management, and the Orange Stage auditorium, focused on waste management, renewable energy, and the circular economy.
“Participating has a dual meaning for me. As a professional, it is a tremendous privilege. I was able to visit several booths, talk with suppliers, and exchange knowledge with people from academia, which has been a very enriching experience. As a representative of Caixa, it is an honor to act as a sponsor and help drive the sanitation sector forward. The fair deserves congratulations, and we hope it returns to Brazil many more times,” said Felipe Rene Cardoso, Project Matrix Coordinator at CAIXA.
The edition also featured three special attractions focused on hands-on experience and knowledge exchange. The Demonstration Arena offered live equipment presentations in an area of over 2,000 m², operating free of charge every day. The Innovation and Startups Arena brought together emerging technological solutions and companies that are transforming the water and sanitation sector, fostering strategic connections and trends. Complementing the program, the Solutions Lounge provided an open space for exhibitors to share success stories with visitors, with registrations done on-site.
IFAT Brasil has Gold+ Sponsorship from CAIXA and the Federal Government.
International Congress: Blue Stage reinforces Brazil’s global relevance in the sector
The rapprochement between Brazil and Europe in the field of industrial technologies is not only commercial but strategic. This was stated by representatives of VDMA (German Engineering Federation) during a presentation at the Blue Stage auditorium that opened the last day of IFAT Brasil 2025 at São Paulo Expo.
The IFAT Brasil 2025 International Congress was divided into two arenas: Blue Stage, a space dedicated to intelligent water and sewage management; and Orange Stage, featuring discussions on pathways for modernizing urban sanitation and transitioning to a circular economy model in Brazil.
Fabiane Wahlbrink, director of the organization in Brazil, highlighted on Friday (27), at the Blue Stage, that VDMA’s work is focused on joint efforts between countries, emphasizing industrial development and the sharing of technical knowledge. “What is practiced in Europe cannot always be directly replicated in Brazil, but there is a lot of exchange. Our country also offers valuable lessons that can help other regions develop,” she explained.
According to her, the organization’s mission goes beyond promoting trade fairs and business rounds. “Our role is to provide real support to member companies by understanding local particularities and fostering innovation based on concrete data. We want to help companies understand the market, adapt their products, and maximize their results based on solid information,” she stated.
Next, Nathalie Wagner presented a detailed overview of the performance of processing technology and industrial equipment in Latin America. Brazil accounted for 26% of the sector’s exports in 2024, trailing only Mexico, which held 30%. In total, exports in the region amounted to €315 million (BRL 2 billion) that year.
“Despite recent fluctuations, the first quarter of 2025 already shows a significant recovery in exports to Brazil, demonstrating the potential for continuous growth in this market,” Wagner stated.
The executive highlighted that even in markets with relatively smaller volumes, such as water, valued at €55 million (BRL 353 million), Brazil appears as the second largest export destination, with 25% of the total, behind only Mexico (46%). “When looking at the first three months of 2025, we already notice a significant increase in export volume compared to recent years. This indicates a more promising environment, with opportunities beyond the traditional market,” she pointed out.
VDMA has been strengthening its presence in Latin America by providing market data, technical analyses, and direct support to member companies interested in expanding business in the region. “The demand for efficient equipment and cleaner technologies is growing. Brazil has the technical and industrial capacity to be a reference not only as a consumer but also as an active part of the global ecosystem,” Wagner said.
Pacto global
The participation of the Global Compact – Brazil Network at the Blue Stage on the afternoon of Friday (27) highlighted the role of companies in building a more sustainable future. Created by the United Nations in the 2000s, the Compact brings together over 25,000 companies in 167 countries and is considered the largest corporate sustainability initiative in the world. “Companies have ceased to be spectators and have become essential drivers in transforming the global landscape,” said Rafael Carmo, senior fundraising analyst at the organization.
The organization operates based on 10 guiding principles, covering human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption. In Brazil, engagement has been growing. “The second largest network in the world is the Brazilian one, second only to the French. This shows how the national private sector has expanded its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs),” Carmo highlighted.
In total, there are 13 initiatives focused on the climate crisis. Regarding water issues, the challenges are urgent: according to data presented by Andresa Cassiano, senior analyst for water, ocean, and waste, 35 million Brazilians still live without access to potable water, and more than 130 million lack adequate sanitation. “Without sanitation, there is no health, no education, no citizenship. This is a social problem, not just a technical or environmental one,” she stated.
She also emphasized the importance of focusing on SDG 12, which targets responsible consumption and production. “If we continue at this pace, by 2060 the extraction of raw materials will increase by 60%, but only 8.6% of that total currently enters circularity. We need to put the social dimension at the center of the waste debate,” she added.
International Congress: Orange Stage brings together specialists and authorities in biomethane
The Orange Stage auditorium of the IFAT Brasil International Congress hosted, this Friday (27), the debate “Best Practices in the Biogas and Biomethane Sector in Brazil – ABiogás Success Cases,” promoted by the Brazilian Biogas Association. The event brought together authorities and experts from companies operating in different links of the biogas and biomethane production chain.
Moderated by Talyta Viana, Regulatory Affairs Coordinator at ABiogás, the debate highlighted the strategic role of biomethane as a driver of the energy transition in Brazil, with emphasis on initiatives implemented in the state of São Paulo. “Today, ABiogás represents more than 160 members across the entire sector chain, reinforcing the potential and diversity of applications of this renewable source,” Talyta stated at the opening.
Representing the Secretariat of Environment, Infrastructure, and Logistics of São Paulo (Semil-SP), Laís Almada, Energy and Mining Advisor, highlighted São Paulo’s leading role in advancing public policies focused on the use of biomethane. “São Paulo has committed to carbon neutrality by 2050 before the UN, and this is reflected in our State Energy Plan, based on the circular economy,” she explained.
Among the actions already on the agenda of the state government, Laís highlighted the reduction of ICMS tax on biomethane, IPVA exemptions for trucks and buses powered by gas, as well as the creation of an app that connects the entire biomethane supply chain in an online ecosystem focused on business generation. According to the advisor, São Paulo has the potential to replace a large part of fossil gas consumption with biomethane, consolidating itself as a reference in the sector.
Regulatory advances
The debate also addressed the essential regulatory advances needed to enable the expansion of biomethane. Amauri Gavião, Technical Regulation Director at Arsesp (Public Services Regulatory Agency of the State of São Paulo), stated that the agency’s work has been decisive in structuring the market. “Biomethane has the same purpose as natural gas but with environmental benefits. The first distribution in São Paulo took place in 2017. Today, we have four plants in operation,” he said.
Pedro Maranhão, president of Abrema (Brazilian Association of Waste and Environment), emphasized the importance of decentralizing projects and the role of landfills. “Almost all major landfills are shifting to biomethane. São Paulo is a key player, but we have projects throughout the country, such as in Fortaleza, where biomethane already accounts for between 20% and 25% of the gas consumed. Landfills need to become increasingly regionalized, which requires a significant effort in infrastructure and regulation.”
Representing Orizon, Caroline Pinho, Energy and Biofuels Manager, presented the company’s initiatives to promote the circular economy through biomethane. “We have two advanced projects focused on waste valorization. Implementing these projects involves challenges such as paperwork, approval times, and regulatory frameworks still under development,” Caroline explained.
Abrema panel highlights solid waste challenges on the way to COP30
Abrema (Brazilian Association of Waste and Environment) participated in one of the Orange Stage panels to discuss solid waste in the context of COP30. The session was moderated by Pedro Maranhão, president of the association.
“This is a very important discussion, as COP30 will take place in the coming months in Belém,” Maranhão said. According to him, the worst basic sanitation indicators in the country are in the so-called Legal Amazon region, which also records the highest infant mortality rates—a direct consequence of the lack of environmental sanitation. “The forest certainly needs to stand strong, but it also needs water treatment, sewage, and proper solid waste management,” he added.
The panel also included the participation of Federal Deputy Arnaldo Jardim, Senator Alan Rick, TCM-BA Councilor Nelson Pellegrino, and ANA (National Water and Basic Sanitation Agency) Director Ana Carolina Argolo.
Entities and public agencies in the sector demonstrate their strength at IFAT Brasil
As highlighted at the opening ceremony of IFAT Brasil 2025, Brazil will only achieve universal basic sanitation by 2033 if there is unity among the public sector, private initiative, and other stakeholders in the sector.
“The importance of this moment for our country is immense, especially now that the sanitation agenda is finally receiving the attention it deserves, after having been neglected for so long. This progress is essential, even though we still need to make some course corrections. We cannot fail to talk about and debate this vital topic, which is basic sanitation,” stated Ana Carolina Argolo, Director of ANA (National Water and Basic Sanitation Agency).
For her, regulating the sector is a major challenge. “That’s why the joint participation of all stakeholders is essential, fostering an increasingly favorable environment toward the end of this marathon. I hope this is the second of many editions of IFAT Brasil, and that the event continues to receive support from the Federal Government and all partners.”
Pedro Maranhão, CEO of Abrema (Brazilian Association of Waste and Environment), spoke about the dynamism and complexity of the sector. “We still deal with open dumps, but we have also made progress in biomethane production. The recent approval of the Future Fuel program, proposed by Deputy Arnaldo Jardim, opened a promising market for biomethane. Therefore, over the next three years, our focus will be precisely on investments in this area, which represent a decisive step toward decarbonizing the economy,” he said.
Luana Pretto, Executive President of the Trata Brasil Institute, stated that IFAT Brasil is “a highly important international fair, and the fact that it has come to Brazil fosters new technologies in the basic sanitation sector, both for water and sewage as well as for waste management.”
“We see here a diverse audience that has been pursuing universal sanitation through technological innovation and partnerships, aiming to achieve universal access at the lowest possible cost for the Brazilian population. So, we are very happy to be here. We always hope to be partners in fostering this progress for those who need it most in Brazil,” she stated.
Organization and participation
Jimmy Sanchez, Foreign Trade and Fairs Manager at AHK Paraguay, highlighted the high level and organization of the event, as well as the significant participation of sector players. “The fair has great participation, and the attention given to every detail is evident. Without a doubt, the fair is consolidating itself as an important platform to promote connections in the water, sanitation, and waste management sectors in Latin America.”
Gino Paulucci Jr., Chairman of the Board of Abimaq, emphasized the pride of the association being represented at the fair by 36 member companies, “in addition to having an island dedicated to Sindesam, our Sector Chamber that brings together manufacturers of machines and equipment focused on basic and environmental sanitation.”
“Our purpose as a sector association is clear: to present to sanitation companies the technological expertise and quality of the national industry. We want to promote innovation and the solutions developed by our members, while also institutionally contributing to the continuous improvement of the business environment in the country,” stated Paulucci Jr.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
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IFAT Brasil 2025 discusses the importance of Artificial Intelligence in basic sanitation
Tools that analyze performance reports and robots that inspect pipelines are already a reality in the market
Artificial Intelligence will become an increasingly important ally for governments and companies to deliver better services in the sanitation sector, thereby generating economic and social benefits for the population. The use of intelligent tools and systems is one of the highlight topics at IFAT Brasil 2025, which began on Wednesday (25) and enters its final day this Friday (27).
The topic was the focus of a debate this Thursday (26) at the IFAT Brasil International Congress, in the Blue Stage, the space that centralizes discussions on water, sewage, and drainage.
At the panel “The Importance of Sanitation Professionals’ Entities for the Universalization of Service Provision,” Débora Longo, president of IPEG (Paulista Institute of Management Excellence) and executive director of Sabesp, emphasized the urgency of increasing investments in the sector.
She presented MEGIA (Excellence Model in ESG Management with AI support), a tool developed by IPEG that uses artificial intelligence to analyze performance reports and support the structuring of sanitation organizations according to sustainable standards.
For Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil, “Artificial Intelligence is already a great ally in streamlining processes, and this will grow exponentially, which will be a crucial point for achieving sanitation goals.” As an example, he mentioned robots that inspect pipelines in the drainage sector.
Innovation and Startups Arena
In partnership with Isle Utilities, IFAT Brasil features an Innovation and Startups Arena, a space dedicated to promoting emerging technological solutions and startups that are transforming the water and sanitation sector.
In addition to companies presenting innovative solutions, the space also offers networking opportunities for decision-makers, investors, and technical specialists. It also hosts the IFAT Brasil Innovative Technology Award, recognizing outstanding initiatives for their contribution to market advancement.
Now in its second edition, IFAT Brazil brings together visitors from every state in Brazil and all countries in South America, with more than 200 exhibiting brands. The event is establishing itself as a strategic platform for business, knowledge exchange, and showcasing technologies aimed at water resources management, waste, energy, and climate change.
A IFAT Brasil tem Patrocínio Ouro+ da CAIXA e Governo Federal e segue nesta quinta (26) e sexta (27), das 13h às 20h, no São Paulo Expo (SP). O credenciamento gratuito pode ser feito no link https://ifatbrasil.com.br/credenciamento. Mora information: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
Orange Stage highlights the potential of alternative fuels
The production and use of Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) have advanced in Brazil but still face challenges for scaling up its application and increasing efficiency in the industry. Manufacturing RDF goes beyond shredding waste: it requires mastering technologies and processes that ensure strict control of parameters such as chlorine content, ash index, and calorific value.
This control is essential to ensure the performance and safety of co-processing. Besides the cement industry, other segments such as direct combustion, gasification, and pyrolysis open new opportunities to expand RDF production from urban and industrial waste. “With technical knowledge, investment in technology, and quality control processes, Brazil can make significant progress in manufacturing and using RDF, expanding its application beyond the cement sector and contributing to a cleaner and more sustainable energy matrix,” says Diego Tarragó, Engineering and New Business Consultant at Fundação Proamb.
Supporting Tarragó, Rejane Afonso, CEO of Monitore Engenharia, highlights that to optimize RDF consumption in co-processing, it is essential to adopt a series of technical strategies, such as using waste with a particle size of 25 mm in the main furnace burner and implementing chlorine bypass systems that help control the presence of unwanted elements during combustion.
“The decarbonization process necessarily involves seeing waste as a solution. Both industrial and urban waste (like a simple pizza box, which is hardly recycled because of the grease) can become alternative fuel through RDF. When well shredded, this material can reach up to 4,000 kcal per kilo, which means more efficient combustion and clean energy generated from what was previously considered garbage.”
The activities of the IFAT Brasil International Congress continue this Friday (27), the event’s final day, starting at 10 a.m. The full schedule is available on the event’s website.
Event gathers visitors from all Brazilian states
As an international event, IFAT Brasil 2025 gathers visitors from all Brazilian states.
Alan Lucio, a sanitation and environmental engineer at RG Response from Cuiabá (MT), sees participation as an opportunity for updating and learning. “I came for the first time at the company's invitation and found many pieces of equipment that can add value to our current system, as well as lectures on topics highly relevant to the sector’s reality and future.”
Robson Ferron, director of Vidasolo Organic Composting, came from Linhares, Espírito Santo, in search of solutions for waste treatment. “Today, we have a very big waste problem there, which is coconut. Coconut generates a lot of waste and we can’t transform it because it’s labor-intensive,” he shared. “We know there are several possibilities for transformation, and this is the kind of business we hope to find here.”
Hidrosolo, a company based in Maceió (AL), is participating in IFAT Brasil for the second time. According to Flávio Alcantara, the company’s director, the trade fair brings exhibitors closer to clients. He also sees IFAT as a showcase to highlight the great potential of the sector in the country. “Brazil still has a lot to do. There is strong demand for retrofitting water and sewage treatment plants, which should drive the market significantly in the coming years,” he stated.
Andréia Fagundes, environmental coordinator at Stihl in Rio Grande do Sul, highlights the search for new technologies and innovative solutions as a priority. “The fair is very diverse, with a wide range of companies and sectors. It’s a great opportunity for networking and to find solutions we can apply in our processes. It’s our first time at the São Paulo edition, and although we couldn’t attend the one in Germany last year due to a flood, we’re already planning to participate in the next one."
Making his debut at IFAT Brasil, Daniel Bosio, engineer at CAESB (DF), is looking for innovations in energy sources. “I’ve only recently started attending trade fairs in this sector, but it’s always an interesting experience. We get the chance to discover solutions and suppliers that can improve our processes.”
Brazil to invest BRL 387 billion in basic sanitation by 2040
A survey conducted by IFAT Brasil in partnership with Pezco Economics and Resolux Company shows that Brazil is expected to invest BRL 387 billion in basic sanitation by 2040. The goal for universal access to sanitation in Brazil is set for 2033, with targets of serving 90% of the population with sewage collection and treatment and ensuring 99% have access to potable water.
“Current and projected investments show that the sector is in full expansion, driven by the growing participation of the private sector, following the establishment of the Legal Framework for Sanitation,” stated Rolf. “Achieving the goal of universal access is a major challenge, and this will only be possible through joint efforts by governments, private companies, associations, and other sector stakeholders.”
The survey highlights that the private sector’s participation in sanitation services in Brazilian municipalities grew from 5.2% in 2019 to 15.7% in 2023—and is projected to reach 45.6% by 2026.
AquiSense wins IFAT Brasil Innovative Technology Award on the second day of the event
The company AquiSense was announced as the winner of the IFAT Brasil Innovative Technology Award this Thursday (June 26), during the second day of IFAT Brasil 2025. The award recognizes outstanding technological solutions presented in the Innovation and Startups Arena.
Specializing in UV-C LED disinfection, AquiSense presented its track record focusing on pilot projects and direct comparisons with traditional mercury-based systems. According to the company, the technology has proven to be more efficient than conventional methods, exceeding even the industry’s own expectations.
“The efficiency of LED has shown to be slightly higher than that of mercury systems, something even the sector itself did not anticipate. It was an exciting experience to present this innovation and engage with professionals who may never have realized that UV LED is already available on the market,” said Andrea Martinez, Applications Engineer at AquiSense.
The award highlights initiatives that drive innovation in the water, sewage, drainage, and solid waste sectors, as part of the IFAT Brasil 2025 program.
Serviço
IFAT Brasil 2025
Date: June 25th to 27th, 2025
Location: São Paulo Expo – São Paulo – Brasil
Time: 1pm to 8pm
Free accreditation: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/credenciamento
Subscribe to the congress: click here by using your e-mail and creating a password
Mora information: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Unity for the Universalization of Basic Sanitation Sets the Tone for the First Day of IFAT Brazil 2025
We need to come together to promote the improvement of environmental technologies in Brazil and South America," said Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe München, during the opening ceremony of the trade fair.
Governments, private sector, lawmakers, associations, professional organizations, judicial bodies, the media, and citizens—there was a common understanding at the opening of IFAT Brazil 2025 this Wednesday (25), at São Paulo Expo (SP): the unification of organizations and individuals is essential for Brazil to achieve its goal of universal access to basic sanitation.
In his speech during the opening ceremony, Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe München do Brasil, the event organizer, opened the discussion on the topic. “The universalization of basic sanitation must be a top priority around the world,” he emphasized. “We need to join forces to improve environmental technologies in Brazil and across South America.”
The opening event featured speeches from representatives across various sectors, including public and private entities. Eduardo Tavares, National Secretary of Funds and Financial Instruments at the Ministry of Integration and Regional Development, also highlighted the importance of collaborative construction within the sector.
According to him, the issue is of great "magnitude" and "urgency", and Brazil presents itself as a highly attractive environment for public-private partnerships. “IFAT plays a critical role at a time like this, because we all need to understand the urgency of the sanitation agenda,” Tavares stated.
For Ana Carolina Argolo, Director at the National Water and Basic Sanitation Agency (ANA), this is a crucial moment for Brazil, especially now that the sanitation agenda is finally receiving the attention it deserves.
“This progress is vital, even if we still need to make some course corrections. We must continue discussing this essential topic—basic sanitation. ANA embraces this mission to help Brazil become a welcoming country for investors. Regulating this sector is truly a major challenge, which is why the joint participation of all stakeholders is essential, creating an increasingly favorable environment to reach the end of this marathon,” said the director.
Albrecht Volkwein, Germany’s Consul General in São Paulo, reinforced that “access to drinking water and sanitation is a fundamental right for a more dignified life,” noting that Brazil is a pioneer in the circular economy in Latin America. “It is a great joy that IFAT arrived in São Paulo last year—and it’s here to stay.”
Luciano Loubet, president of Abrampa (Brazilian Association of Environmental Public Prosecutors), added other important aspects to the discussion: the need for transparency, public oversight, and the promotion of fair competition within the sector.
Now in its second edition, IFAT Brazil brings together visitors from every state in Brazil and all countries in South America, with more than 200 exhibiting brands. The event is establishing itself as a strategic platform for business, knowledge exchange, and showcasing technologies aimed at water resources management, waste, energy, and climate change.
IFAT Brasil is sponsored at the Gold+ level by CAIXA and the Federal Government and continues this Thursday (26) and Friday (27), from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., at São Paulo Expo (SP). Free registration is available at https://ifatbrasil.com.br/credenciamento. Mora information: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
Over 100 Million Brazilians Still Lack Access to a Sewage Network
IFAT Brazil 2025 released updated data on the sanitation sector this Wednesday (25). Cross-referencing data from an IFAT Brazil study with Pezco Economics, Resolux Company, and the updated population estimates from IBGE reveals that 101 million Brazilians (47.8% of the population) still do not have access to a sewage network. The North region is the most affected, with only 14.7% coverage. Even in São Paulo, the state with the best performance, 1 in every 10 residents still lives without treated sewage
According to the report, Brazil will need to invest R$ 387 billion by 2040 in water and sewage infrastructure. However, this amount will be insufficient to achieve universal coverage and is unevenly distributed across the country’s five regions.
The target established by the new legal framework for sanitation is to achieve 90% sewage coverage and 99% access to drinking water by 2033.
"Facing these challenges head-on and finding solutions is one of the goals of IFAT Brazil. And we can only transform this reality if we are backed by concrete and reliable data from our sector. When we talk about basic sanitation, we’re not just talking about infrastructure—we’re talking about health and human lives," said *Rolf Pickert, CEO of **Messe München do Brasil*, the event organizer.
Highlights from the First Day of the IFAT Brazil 2025 International Congress
Democratizing access to qualified information and strengthening the environmental solutions ecosystem in Brazil—this is the commitment driving the IFAT Brazil International Congress, which began on Wednesday (25) and continues over the next two days.
The program is free and open to the public, with simultaneous translation into English and Spanish. To attend, participants must register for the event and sign up for the congress. Access to the venue is open from 9:00 a.m., and registration can be done for free via \[this link].
The congress is divided into two arenas:
* *Blue Stage* – dedicated to intelligent water and sewage management
* *Orange Stage* – focused on urban cleaning modernization and transitioning toward a circular economy model in Brazil
Blue Stage: Water, Sewage, and Drainage Debates
On Wednesday (25), the Blue Stage hosted four panels featuring representatives from organizations and companies such as *Abes, Sindesam, Abimaq, and Frost & Sullivan* A highlight was the panel titled:
*“Brazil Advancing in Basic and Environmental Sanitation with National Technology”*, which presented domestically developed solutions and equipment for water treatment.
The session was moderated by *Mário Ramacciotti, Vice President of **SINDESAM*. Among the speakers:
*Rafael Evaristo, Sales Manager at **Andritz Separation, discussed the challenges of **municipal sludge dehydration and drying*.
He emphasized the need for *economic and energy feasibility*:
“It’s a challenge to make the numbers work. Operational costs require medium- to short-term returns. We need to consider the type of energy and available space at the plant. It’s about more than just saving on transportation; sustainability must be part of the equation.”
Rafael also shared a *case study on waste valorization, highlighting the **recovery of valuable resources through sustainable solutions*.
Paula Nery, LATAM Sales Manager at **Lutz-Jesco América* and Vice President of *CSBM, was invited by **Dosiflow* to present a *technical study on public water supply in Barreiro, Portugal*.
The system described includes *sodium hypochlorite production via electrolysis, with an automated process for **descaling, salinization, generation, and dosing through specialized pumps—a **more sustainable and efficient method* for treating drinking water.
Orange Stage: Waste Management, Energy Recovery, and Waste Valorization Solutions
In a panel hosted by the *Brazilian Association of Waste and Environment (Abrema)* and moderated by its president, *Pedro Maranhão*, the discussion focused on:
* Ensuring the *economic and financial sustainability* of sanitation services
* Strengthening *concession contracts*
* Highlighting the *regulatory role of the Public Prosecutor’s Office*
Participants included *Fabrício Cobra Arbex, São Paulo’s Municipal Secretary of Subprefectures, and **Luciano Loubet, President of **Abrampa*.
*Fabrício Cobra Arbex* stated that *São Paulo’s new urban cleaning contract* has significantly expanded services to meet recent demands.
The *bulky waste collection program (Cata-Bagulho)* is now biweekly, and the number of *eco-stations (ecopontos)* has increased, as outlined in the city's strategic plan.
Para ele, é fundamental desonerar o poder público da execução direta das atividades operacionais. “Com mecanismos de financiamento e investimentos em logística reversa, as prefeituras podem concentrar esforços em áreas como licenciamento urbano e regulamentação de comunidades”, afirmou.
Another highlight was the presentation by Ambiental Limpeza Urbana, focusing on concession models with direct tariff collection and energy recovery from waste. The company’s CFO, Ugino Nolli Jr., and Technical Manager, Everton Herzer, shared experiences that reveal the need for structural reform in the sector.
Currently, more than 60% of Brazilian municipalities do not adopt any form of fee for urban cleaning services, compromising their sustainability. Among the solutions proposed to change this reality are models already in operation in cities such as Joinville (SC) and Palmeira (PR).
Plan Ahead
The schedule of presentations at the IFAT Brasil 2025 International Congress continues on Thursday (26) and Friday (27). The congress will cover topics such as sustainable production of biogas and biomethane, co-processing of RDF, opportunities for Brazil based on international Waste-to-Energy experiences, waste law and reverse logistics toward COP30, as well as water resource and solid waste management in the context of environmental sanitation.
More info: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/congresso-2025/
Demonstration Arena Showcases Solutions in Real Operation at IFAT Brasil 2025
During IFAT Brasil 2025, the Demonstration Arena stands out as a key space for companies to showcase the performance of their machines and equipment in practice to a highly qualified audience.
Specializing in technologies for biomass processing, recycling, composting, and solid waste recovery, Lippel will present two high-performance shredders. One, designed for urban use, is showcased as an effective solution for handling branches and pruning, enabling immediate reuse of material from tree falls or maintenance, with logistical and environmental benefits.
The second, large-scale equipment stands out for its versatility, capable of shredding everything from wood to construction waste. “Our participation in this arena is very strategic. We want to demonstrate the application and the brand in practice so people can see that there are solutions for everything,” says Lucas Lippel, the company owner.
The Demonstration Arena will be active every day of the fair, with demonstrations every 20 minutes.
ATME | Eco Solutions Wins IFAT Brasil Innovative Technology Award
Guilherme Maziviero, Project Coordinator at ATME | Eco Solutions, received the IFAT Brasil Innovative Technology Award this Wednesday (25). The award honors two winners, with the second to be announced on Thursday (26).
Wednesday’s award recognized the Laguna Innovation technology, designed for wastewater treatment in small communities, which the company presented at IFAT Brasil 2025 in the Innovation and Startups Arena.
The solution developed combines multiple technological approaches in a single, highly compact system, capable of delivering high-quality effluent with the potential for reuse. According to Maziviero, the system ensures the rational use of resources, low operating costs, and high resilience—essential aspects in the face of current challenges related to water scarcity and supply security.
“Being able to treat this water to a quality suitable for reuse is fundamental to expanding access to sanitation services in Brazil. This is especially relevant in light of the universalization target set by the new framework for 2033,” he stated.
This was ATME’s first time participating as an exhibitor at IFAT Brasil. Maziviero attended the event as a visitor in 2024. For him, the fair is strategic for the sector as it brings together multiple segments with a strong focus on innovation. “IFAT is a fair with great potential. It manages to unite different sectors in one space, helping to drive trends and attract new investments,” he highlighted.
Published by:
IFAT Brasil 2025
Date: June 25th to 27th, 2025
Location: São Paulo Expo – São Paulo – Brasil
Time: 1pm to 8pm
Free accreditation: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/credenciamento
Subscribe to the congress: click here by using your e-mail and creating a password
From 9AM to 8PM
Mora information: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Brazil Could Generate 1.5 Billion Liters of Diesel per Day from Waste
Landfills Could Produce 4.5 Million m³ of Biomethane Daily by 2026; IFAT Brasil 2025 to Highlight the Country’s Waste-to-Energy Potential
São Paulo, June 2025 – IFAT Brasil 2025, taking place from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo, will showcase Brazil’s potential to transform urban solid waste into a strategic source of renewable energy. According to ABiogás (Brazilian Biogas Association), the country will have the capacity next year to produce 4.5 million cubic meters of biomethane per day from waste—equivalent to 1.5 billion liters of diesel.
“Turning waste into clean energy is no longer a futuristic promise. Brazil already has the technology and resources to convert this potential into reality. We need to emphasize that urban waste can become one of the country’s largest sustainable energy sources,” said Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the organizer of the fair.
To achieve this, the waste chain must be understood in an integrated way—from collection and sorting to energy recovery. It is not limited to final disposal. We need to see landfills as part of a cycle that generates clean energy, jobs, and social development,” highlights Pedro Maranhão, President of ABREMA (Brazilian Association of Waste and Environment).
The WtE (Waste-to-Energy) concept, which includes biogas and biomethane production through anaerobic digestion of organic waste in landfills, as well as other complementary energy-generation methods, is considered the most strategic solution. Biomethane, in particular, is seen as one of the most promising renewable fuels, as it can replace petroleum derivatives without major changes to existing gas infrastructure.
Additionally, it has synergy with social initiatives and can support the inclusion of recyclable waste pickers. “While waste pickers handle mechanical recycling, landfills promote energy recycling of organic waste. It is a model of complementarity that strengthens the chain and distributes value,” says Maranhão.
Regulation Remains a Barrier
Even with established technology and growing investor interest, the expansion of biomethane production depends on clearer and more stable regulatory frameworks. The sector advocates for public policies that encourage the gradual replacement of fossil fuels with renewable alternatives, such as the Combustível do Futuro program, currently under review.
“We have the technology and capital ready to scale. But we need clear rules and legal predictability so that projects move off the drawing board and reach national scale. IFAT Brasil plays a crucial role in this debate, supporting environmental goals while driving the economy and promoting inclusion,” Maranhão concludes.
Other topics as "Best Practices in the biogas sector in Brazil will be discussed at the Orange Stage by Pedro Maranhão, president of ABREMA.
By
IFAT Brasil 2025
Data: 25 a 27 de junho de 2025
Local: São Paulo Expo – São Paulo – Brasil
Horário: 13h às 20h
Credenciamento Gratuito: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/credenciamento
Subscribe to the congress: click here by using your e-mail and creating a password
Mora information: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Specialists Discuss Water and Waste Management Solutions at IFAT Brasil’s International Congress
With successful case studies, the event aims to identify pathways to accelerate the achievement of targets set by Brazil’s Sanitation Legal Framework.
São Paulo, June 2025 – Committed to promoting knowledge and training the professionals who will lead the future of environmental management in Brazil, the IFAT Brasil 2025 International Congress will bring together the main national and international entities and experts in the water and solid waste sectors. All sessions are free and open to the public, with simultaneous translation from Portuguese into English and Spanish during the opening, upon event registration and congress enrollment.
The Congress reinforces IFAT Brasil’s commitment to democratizing access to qualified information and strengthening the country’s environmental solutions ecosystem. Interested participants must first complete free registration here. The event will take place from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo.
With active participation from government representatives, sector associations, academia, and innovative companies, the panels are organized across two thematic stages: the Blue Stage, dedicated to water management, and the Orange Stage, focused on waste management, renewable energy, and the circular economy.
“We have developed a high-quality technical program, featuring prominent names with hands-on experience in the sector. Our commitment is to support the training of today’s professionals so they can become key players in building a more sustainable future,” highlights Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil.
The full program is available on the event website, and registered visitors can enroll for free (mandatory) to participate in the panels.
Concrete Opportunities
The panel “Water Resource Management and Universal Access to Sanitation Services”, promoted by ABES, opens the program on June 25 at 1:30 PM on the Blue Stage, bringing together specialists to discuss regulatory, financial, and technological pathways to expand access to quality water in Brazil.
Later on the first day, public management case studies and strategies aligned with international sustainability goals, promoted by SINDESAM/ABIMAQ, will be presented at 2:45 PM, showing how national technology has helped Brazil advance in basic and environmental sanitation. At 6:15 PM on the Orange Stage, a discussion on new energy alternatives and the valorization of agricultural waste, promoted by GIZ, will highlight green hydrogen and the agribusiness sector.
On June 26 at 1:30 PM, the panel “Environmental Technologies and Water Management: How German Technologies Can Impact Brazil’s Water, Sewage, and Drainage Market”, promoted by AHK Brasil, will present the European perspective on water solutions, showing how innovation and international exchange can accelerate sectoral progress on the Orange Stage.
Following that, at 4:15 PM, the Blue Stage will host a panel connecting opportunities between Paraguay, Brazil, and Germany, focusing on sustainable development and strategic partnerships, promoted by AHK Paraguay. Earlier, at 11:00 AM, the public will be invited to reflect on the professional recognition in the sector in a panel with AESABESP (Association of Sabesp Engineers).
On the final day, the Blue Stage opens discussions at 11:00 AM with the methodology to achieve targets for drainage, waste management, water, and effluent management, promoted by VDMA.
On the Orange Stage, the afternoon of June 27 will feature ABREMA presenting best practices for the future of waste management in Brazil, followed by the panel “Best Practices in the Biogas and Biomethane Sector in Brazil: Success Cases”, closing the event at 3:15 PM. Organized by ABiogás, the panel will discuss Brazil’s potential for biomethane production from urban solid waste.
Complete Expierence
Beyond the Congress
The event will also feature multiple attractions: the Demonstration Arena will showcase equipment in operation from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the outdoor area. The Innovation and Startups Arena, in partnership with Isle Utilities, will display disruptive solutions. Finally, the Solutions Lounge will offer detailed presentations of products and services by exhibitors.
IFAT Brasil’s pre-registration has already attracted visitors from all South American countries and every state in Brazil.
Serviço
IFAT Brasil 2025
Date: June 25th to 27th, 2025
Location: São Paulo Expo – São Paulo – Brasil
Time: 1pm to 8pm
Free accreditation: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/credenciamento
Subscribe to the congress: click here by using your e-mail and creating a password
Mora information: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Brazil Wastes 97% of Biogas Potential, Losing Opportunity to Generate R$ 500 Billion
With regulatory barriers and limited public policy implementation, the country fails to capitalize on its capacity to generate energy from waste.
São Paulo, May 2025 – Brazil has one of the world’s largest potentials to generate electricity from waste, with projections indicating up to R$ 500 billion in investments in the biogas, biomethane, and energy recovery sector. However, less than 3% of this biogas potential is currently exploited, according to data from the Brazilian Waste-to-Energy Association (ABREN). The absence of a consolidated regulatory framework, combined with a lack of incentives and integrated planning, prevents the sector from advancing in a structured way.
São Paulo, May 2025 – Brazil has one of the world’s largest potentials to generate electricity from waste, with projections indicating up to R$ 500 billion in investments in the biogas, biomethane, and energy recovery sector. However, less than 3% of this biogas potential is currently exploited, according to data from the Brazilian Waste-to-Energy Association (ABREN). The absence of a consolidated regulatory framework, combined with a lack of incentives and integrated planning, prevents the sector from advancing in a structured way.
Currently, over 90% of biogas potential lies in agricultural waste and remains virtually untapped. At the same time, 30% of urban waste continues to be improperly disposed of, often in environmentally sensitive areas. Experts argue that the solution lies in including energy recovery in capacity auctions, approving programs such as the PNRE (National Program for Energy Recovery from Waste), and implementing public policies that integrate energy, environment, and sanitation.
Connecting Policy and Business
The urgency of the topic and the sector’s potential will be at the center of discussions at IFAT Brasil 2025, the largest international trade fair in Latin America for water, sewage, sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery solutions. The event will take place from June 25 to 27 in São Paulo, bringing together companies, government representatives, specialists, and associations in panels and lectures focused on the energy transition, waste valorization, and related subjects.
“IFAT Brasil plays a key role in fostering dialogue between government, the private sector, and technical entities. We are creating an environment conducive to building viable and sustainable solutions for waste management and energy generation in the country,” says Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizer of the fair.
Serviço
IFAT Brasil 2025
Date: June 25th to 27th, 2025
Location: São Paulo Expo – São Paulo – Brasil
Time: 1pm to 8pm
https://ifatbrasil.com.br/credenciamento
Subscribe to the congress: click here by using your e-mail and creating a password
Mora information: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
IFAT Brasil's registration is officially open
Latin America’s Largest Environmental Technology Fair Hosts Meetings with Neighboring Countries’ Leaders; Limited Spots Available
São Paulo, May 2025 – IFAT Brasil, the largest international trade fair in Latin America for water, sewage, sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery solutions, has opened free registration with limited spots for its congress. Specialists, companies, and authorities from Brazil and around the world will discuss the main trends and innovations in the sector.
. The event will take place from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo.
The full program is available on the event website, and registered visitors can enroll for free (mandatory) to participate in the panels. The Congress will offer simultaneous translation from Portuguese into Spanish and English. Entry to the rooms will be on a first-come, first-served basis, limited to the venue’s capacity; therefore, registered participants are advised to arrive early. Participation certificates will be made available on the event website after attending the panels, exclusively for those who take part in the Congress.
What’s New
For this edition, visitors will see a key innovation: the division into two thematic stages—Blue Stage and Orange Stage. The Blue Stage will focus entirely on water management, covering topics from the conservation and management of water bodies to critical issues such as flood control, tariff regulation, water loss, universal access, climate change, water in Latin American industries, innovations in water systems, and applications of artificial intelligence in sector digitalization.
Meanwhile, the Orange Stage will focus on efficient waste management, emphasizing recycling, upcycling, biofuels such as biogas and biomethane, green hydrogen, energy recovery, and waste treatment in the pulp and paper industry, the textile industry, and agricultural by-product applications.
“The creation of thematic stages marks a milestone in the evolution of our congress,” explains Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil. “By segmenting the content, we can offer more technical and specialized debates, allowing water professionals and waste and energy recovery professionals to have the best possible experience without having to choose between topics,” he adds.
This innovative format maintains the event’s traditional commitment to applied knowledge, qualified networking, and presenting practical solutions for contemporary environmental challenges. With this structure, IFAT Brasil 2025 solidifies itself as an essential platform for professionals seeking technical updates, strategic insights, and business opportunities in the environmental technology sector.
Other Attractions
In addition to the Orange and Blue Stages, IFAT Brasil 2025 will feature three special areas:
The Demonstration Arena, in the outdoor area of São Paulo Expo, will host live equipment demonstrations, open free to visitors from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM every day.
The Innovation and Startups Arena, in partnership with Isle Utilities, will focus on disruptive solutions in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and smart social management, bringing together leading innovative companies in the sector.
The Solutions Lounge, a reserved area for exhibitors to deliver technical presentations about their equipment and solutions.
Serviço
IFAT Brasil 2025
Date: June 25th to 27th, 2025
Location: São Paulo Expo – São Paulo – Brasil
Time: 1pm to 8pm
https://ifatbrasil.com.br/credenciamento
Subscribe to the congress: click here by using your e-mail and creating a password
Mora information: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Notice to Exhibitors – IFAT Brasil 2025: Submission of Information for Press Coverage
2PRÓ Comunicação, the official public relations agency of IFAT Brasil 2025, invites your company to actively participate in this year’s event promotion activities.
To do so, we request the submission of your company’s main attractions, demonstrations, innovations, and launches that will be presented during the fair. This information will be crucial for journalists and content creators covering the event, as well as for preparing newsletters and media briefs.
If your company will feature machines, equipment, or live demonstrations, please highlight this in the material, briefly explaining the key differentiators and innovations of the products.
A concise summary of 10 to 15 lines highlighting your participation;
High-resolution images of the product or activity you wish to feature;
Contact information (email and phone) of the company’s communication or PR representative.
Information should be sent by May 23 to joao.ruvolo@2pro.com.br.
Participation in this promotional initiative is free of charge for your company.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Almost Half of Paraguay’s Population Lacks Access to Adequate and Safe Sanitation
Only one-quarter of residential wastewater is safely treated, according to a Frost & Sullivan report in partnership with IFAT Brasil.
São Paulo, March 2025 – Nearly half of Paraguay’s population (44.8%) does not have access to adequate and safe sanitation services, according to a Frost & Sullivan report in partnership with IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions). Furthermore, only 25.1% of residential wastewater is safely treated.
The study also shows that 40% of treated water is lost during distribution. At the same time, 35.2% of Paraguay’s population lacks safe access to drinking water.
“When half of Paraguay’s population lacks access to adequate sanitation and four out of ten citizens cannot access safe drinking water, people’s quality of life is compromised, as is the country’s economic development. We hope that sharing this information will serve as a starting point for policy adjustments and new investments in the sector,” says Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe München do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil, Latin America’s largest environmental technology fair.
According to Fredrick Royan, Global Practice Leader for Sustainability and Circular Economy (SCE) at Frost & Sullivan, the study includes detailed data from Paraguay and other South American countries, providing “reliable, real-time data” to support “efficiency improvements and informed decision-making in water, energy, and materials processes.”
The report also highlights revenue collected at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), reaching US$ 1.28 billion in 2022; 80% of this amount is municipal, while 20% is industrial.
Opportunities
In 2025, Paraguay projects a GDP of USD 46.8 billion, expected to reach USD 57.9 billion by 2029, according to IMF data. The Paraguayan economy is divided into 49% services, 32.4% industry, and 11.3% agriculture. This scenario highlights both domestic market potential and opportunities in water treatment and sanitation.
The need to expand infrastructure to reduce distribution losses, increase safe access to drinking water and sanitation, and meet wastewater treatment targets opens the way for modernization and network expansion projects.
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Roadshow
The data were shared in a webinar on March 19, part of the IFAT Brasil Roadshow in Latin America, organized in partnership with the AHK Paraguay. In addition to Paraguay, the roadshow also includes Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Uruguay.
The objective of the roadshow is to provide a comprehensive overview of environmental technologies in each country, promote high-quality discussions with renowned experts, and share reliable information so industry players can make informed decisions, directly impacting public health and well-being.
Additionally, the initiative seeks to increase the participation of South American representatives in the second edition of IFAT Brasil, taking place from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo.
O Roadshow presencial em Assunção está programado para a manhã do dia 25 de março no escritório da AHK do Paraguai. For the full schedule and participation details, click here.
IFAT Brasil registration is free and can be completed here.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts.
IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
IFAT Brasil 2025 Opens Free Registration for the Public
The event takes place at São Paulo Expo from June 25 to 27 and expects to welcome a large audience
São Paulo, March 2025 – IFAT Brasil 2025, the largest International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions, announces the opening of free registration for the public. The event, held from June 25 to 27, 2025, at São Paulo Expo, brings together the latest innovations and trends in the sector, focusing on waste management, water, sewage, energy, and climate change.
“At IFAT Brasil 2025, we are committed to connecting skills, aligning regulations, and identifying needs to drive the environmental technologies sector. In 2024, we offered over 71 hours of content with 132 speakers from 10 countries, consolidating our commitment to delivering an event of excellence and innovation. By attending IFAT Brasil, the public will stay up-to-date with global trends through lectures and discussions with national and international representatives, as well as discover success stories that are transforming the sector,” states Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil.
Highlights
This year’s edition features three new spaces dedicated to discussions and presentations on the most important topics in the sector.
- Blue Stage: Focuses on intelligent water and sewage management, covering topics such as water body conservation and management, flood control, urban drainage systems, and public and tariff regulation.
- Orange Stage: Dedicated to discussions on management, energy recovery, and waste valorization, with an emphasis on the circular economy, featuring prominent industry professionals exploring methods and alternatives to turn challenges into sustainable solutions.
- Demonstration Arena: Designed for live equipment presentations, offering over 2,000 m² of open space and completely free activation for exhibitors. It will operate daily from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
- Innovation & Startups Arena: The event’s cutting-edge space, gathering companies with disruptive solutions in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and smart social management.
“The environmental technologies market in Brazil has extraordinary growth potential! These numbers reflect not only the demand for sustainable solutions but also the urgency to adopt innovative technologies to tackle environmental challenges. IFAT Brasil emerges as the ideal platform to explore these opportunities, enabling attendees to network with industry leaders and experts, connecting with professionals at the forefront of sustainability,” Pickert concludes.
Serviço
IFAT Brasil 2025
Date: June 25th to 27th, 2025
Location: São Paulo Expo – São Paulo – Brasil
Time: 1pm to 8pm
Free registration: click here
More info: ifatbrasil.com.br
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Most of the Peruvian Population Lacks Safe Sewage Treatment
A report by Frost & Sullivan in partnership with IFAT Brasil reveals that Peru loses 37% of water in the distribution process.
São Paulo, March 2025 – Less than half (48.7%) of domestic sewage is safely treated in Peru, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan in partnership with IFAT Brasil. In addition, water loss during distribution reaches 37%.
The study found that, among the rural population, 34.7% lack access to adequate sanitation facilities, and 17.6% do not have access to safe drinking water. Considering the total Peruvian population, these numbers decrease to 12.6% and 6%, respectively.
“The lack of proper treatment for domestic wastewater affects not only Peru’s economy and sustainable development but also the health of its population. I hope that sharing this information will serve as a starting point for public policy adjustments and new investments in the sector,” comments Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe München do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil, the largest international environmental technologies fair in Latin America.
According to Fredrick Royan, Global Practice Leader for Sustainability and Circular Economy (SCE) at Frost & Sullivan, the study includes detailed data from Peru and other South American countries, providing “reliable, real-time data” to support “efficiency improvements and informed decision-making, impacting processes related to water, energy, and materials.”
The report also highlights revenue collected at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), reaching US$ 1.28 billion in 2022; 80% of this amount is municipal, while 20% is industrial.
Opportunities
In 2025, Peru is projected to have a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$ 294.9 billion, with expectations to grow 17.9% by 2029, reaching US$ 347.6 billion, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. The Peruvian economy is diversified, with 51.3% of GDP coming from services, 33.9% from industry, and 7.2% from agriculture, indicating a strong trend toward tertiary activities. This economic growth reflects the potential of the domestic market and opportunities in the water treatment and sanitation sector.
The need to expand infrastructure, reduce distribution losses, and meet wastewater treatment targets opens the way for modernization and network expansion projects.
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Roadshow
These data were presented in a webinar held on February 20, part of the IFAT Brasil Roadshow, promoted in partnership with the AHK Peru. Along with Peru, the event also includes Bolivia, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, and Uruguay.
The objective of the roadshow is to provide a comprehensive overview of environmental technologies in each country, promote high-quality discussions with renowned experts, and share reliable information so industry players can make informed decisions, directly impacting public health and well-being.
Additionally, the initiative seeks to increase the participation of South American representatives in the second edition of IFAT Brasil, taking place from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo.
O credenciamento da IFAT Brasil é gratuito e pode ser feito neste link.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts.
IFAT Brasil is Part of IFAT Worldwide, the Global Leader in Environmental Technologies
The network includes 12 events across 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from over 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Almost Half of Paraguay’s Population Lacks Access to Adequate and Safe Sanitation
IFAT Brasil is Part of IFAT Worldwide, the Global Leader in Environmental Technologies
São Paulo, March 2025 – Nearly half of Paraguayans (44.8%) do not have access to adequate and safe basic sanitation services, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan in partnership with IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions). Furthermore, only 25% of residential wastewater is safely treated.
The study also shows that 40% of treated water is lost during distribution. At the same time, 35.2% of Paraguay’s population lacks safe access to drinking water.
“When half of Paraguay’s population lacks access to adequate sanitation and four out of ten citizens cannot access safe drinking water, people’s quality of life is compromised, as is the country’s economic development. We hope that sharing this information will serve as a starting point for policy adjustments and new investments in the sector,” says Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe München do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil, Latin America’s largest environmental technology fair.
According to Fredrick Royan, Global Practice Leader for Sustainability and Circular Economy (SCE) at Frost & Sullivan, the study includes detailed data from Paraguay and other South American countries, providing “reliable, real-time data” to support “efficiency improvements and informed decision-making in water, energy, and materials processes.”
The report also highlights revenue collected at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), reaching US$ 1.28 billion in 2022; 80% of this amount is municipal, while 20% is industrial.
Opportunities
In 2025, Peru is projected to have a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$ 294.9 billion, with expectations to grow 17.9% by 2029, reaching US$ 347.6 billion, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. The Peruvian economy is diversified, with 51.3% of GDP coming from services, 33.9% from industry, and 7.2% from agriculture, indicating a strong trend toward tertiary activities. This economic growth reflects the potential of the domestic market and opportunities in the water treatment and sanitation sector.
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Roadshow
The data were shared in a webinar on March 19, part of the IFAT Brasil Roadshow in Latin America, organized in partnership with the AHK Paraguay. In addition to Paraguay, the roadshow also includes Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Uruguay.
The objective of the roadshow is to provide a comprehensive overview of environmental technologies in each country, promote high-quality discussions with renowned experts, and share reliable information so industry players can make informed decisions, directly impacting public health and well-being.
Additionally, the initiative seeks to increase the participation of South American representatives in the second edition of IFAT Brasil, taking place from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo.
The in-person Roadshow in Asunción is scheduled for the morning of March 25 at the AHK Paraguay office. For the full schedule and participation details, click here.
IFAT Brasil registration is free and can be completed here.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts.
IFAT Brasil is Part of IFAT Worldwide, the Global Leader in Environmental Technologies
The network includes 12 events across 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from over 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Chile Loses a Third of Its Water During Distribution
Frost & Sullivan Report in Partnership with IFAT Brasil Shows That 10.9% of Domestic Wastewater Does Not Receive Proper Treatment
São Paulo, March 2025 – Chile loses 33.4% of its treated water during distribution to the population, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan in partnership with IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions). Additionally, 10.9% of domestic wastewater is not safely treated, despite the existence of 500 treatment plants in the country.
The study also shows, according to the United Nations (UN), that 98.8% of the Chilean population has access to safe drinking water. Another relevant figure is access to properly managed basic sanitation infrastructure, which covers 95.3% of Chileans.
“Although the percentage of people with access to safe water and improved sanitation facilities is high, one-third of Chile’s treated water is lost during distribution. We hope that sharing this information will help promote public policies and new investments in the sector to improve current processes,” comments Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe München do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil, the largest international environmental technologies fair in Latin America.
According to Fredrick Royan, Global Practice Leader for Sustainability and Circular Economy (SCE) at Frost & Sullivan, the study includes detailed data from Chile and other South American countries, providing “a reliable, real-time overview of the sector” to support “efficiency improvements as well as informed decision-making affecting water, energy, and material processes.”
“Analyzing the South American context, it becomes clear that technological advances and professional capacity building—from policymakers to industry stakeholders—are essential to drive the development of the water and sewage sector and improve the most underserved areas,” states Royan.
Opportunities
The Report Highlights that the Water and Wastewater Market Generated US$ 1.44 Billion in Revenue in 2022, with 72% Coming from Municipal Sources
For 2025, Chile is projected to have a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$ 362.2 billion, with expectations to reach US$ 432 billion by 2029, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The Chilean economy is composed of 56.9% services, 29.7% industry, and 3.5% agriculture. This economic growth reflects the domestic market potential and opportunities in the water treatment and sanitation sector.
The need to expand infrastructure to reduce distribution losses and meet wastewater treatment targets opens the way for modernization and expansion projects for supply and treatment networks.
Roadshow
These data were presented during a webinar held on March 19, part of the IFAT Brasil Roadshow in Latin America, promoted in partnership with AHK Chile. In addition to Chile, the event also includes Argentina, Bolivia, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.
The objective of the roadshow is to provide a comprehensive overview of environmental technologies in each country, promote high-quality discussions with renowned experts, and share reliable information so industry players can make informed decisions, directly impacting public health and well-being.
Additionally, the initiative seeks to increase the participation of South American representatives in the second edition of IFAT Brasil, taking place from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo.
The in-person Roadshow in Santiago is scheduled for March 27 at 6 p.m., at the Olá Hotel. For the full schedule and participation details, click here.
Registration for IFAT Brasil is free and can be completed via this link.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to boost the emerging environmental technologies market in Brazil and across Latin America. The event is organized and promoted by Messe Muenchen do Brasil and serves as a platform connecting multiple market stakeholders. It brings together in a single environment all solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery solutions. The event is recognized for promoting debates on key topics and sector challenges with international experts.
IFAT Brasil is part of IFAT Worldwide, the global leader in environmental technologies, which includes 12 events across 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from over 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Only 36.5% of Wastewater is Safely Treated in Argentina
Frost & Sullivan Report in Partnership with IFAT Brasil Shows That 9.9% of the Population Lacks Access to Safe Drinking Water
São Paulo, March 2025 – Only 36.5% of wastewater is safely treated in Argentina, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan in partnership with IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions). Additionally, water loss during the distribution process reaches 40%.
The study found that 1 in 10 Argentinians (9.9%) does not have access to safe drinking water. However, the country stands out in terms of sewage network coverage, which is available to 99.62% of the population.
“Despite the high percentage of people with access to improved sanitation facilities, 6 in 10 Argentinians still do not receive safe treatment. This affects not only Argentina’s economy and sustainable development but also public health. We hope that sharing this information will serve as a starting point for public policy adjustments and new investments in the sector,” comments Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe München do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil, the largest international environmental technologies fair in Latin America.
According to Fredrick Royan, Global Practice Leader for Sustainability and Circular Economy (SCE) at Frost & Sullivan, the study includes detailed data from Argentina and other South American countries, providing “reliable, real-time data” to support “efficiency improvements as well as informed decision-making affecting processes related to water, energy, and materials.”
The report also highlights revenue collected at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), reaching US$ 1.28 billion in 2022; 80% of this amount is municipal, while 20% is industrial.
Opportunities
The report also highlights that revenue generated in the water and sewage market reached US$ 4.43 billion in 2022, with 71% coming from municipal sources and the remaining 29% from industrial sources.
In 2025, Argentina is projected to have a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$ 574.2 billion, with expectations to grow 24.3% by 2029, reaching US$ 713.9 billion, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. The Argentine economy is composed of 53.1% services, 25.1% industry, and 5.9% agriculture. This economic growth reflects the domestic market potential and opportunities for the water treatment and sanitation sector.
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Roadshow
The data were presented during a webinar held on March 19, part of the IFAT Brasil Roadshow, promoted in partnership with AHK Argentina. In addition to Argentina, the event also includes Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay.
The objective of the roadshow is to provide a comprehensive overview of environmental technologies in each country, promote high-quality discussions with renowned experts, and share reliable information so industry players can make informed decisions, directly impacting public health and well-being.
Alongside this, the event organizers aim to strengthen relationships with representatives from South American countries to encourage participation in the second edition of IFAT Brasil, taking place in São Paulo from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo.
The in-person Roadshow in Buenos Aires is scheduled for the morning of April 1, 2025, at the AHK Argentina office.
To keep up with the schedule and learn how to participate, click here.
IFAT Brasil registration is free and can be completed here.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is Part of IFAT Worldwide, the Global Leader in Environmental Technologies
The network includes 12 events across 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from over 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
IFAT Brasil 2025 Opens Free Registration for the Public
The event takes place at São Paulo Expo from June 25 to 27 and expects to host more than 300 exhibitors for its second edition
São Paulo, March 2025 – IFAT Brasil 2025, the leading International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions, announces the opening of free registration for the public. The event, held from June 25 to 27, 2025, at São Paulo Expo, brings together the latest innovations and trends in the sector, focusing on waste management, water, sewage, energy, and climate change.
In addition to a projected 90% increase in the number of exhibitors, with more than 300 brands participating, the event has more than doubled its exhibition area, expanding from 11,000 m² in 2024 to 23,000 m² this year. The expectation is to surpass the over 20,000 visitors from 50 countries and all Brazilian states who attended in 2024.
“At IFAT Brasil 2025, attendees will discover global trends and technological innovations shaping the future of the environmental sector. The event is the perfect opportunity to connect with industry leaders and expand networking. Here, partnerships that make a difference come to life. By registering, the public gains access to a universe of business opportunities and sustainable solutions that will transform the way environmental challenges are overcome,” states Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil.
Highlights
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- Blue Stage: Focuses on intelligent water management, covering topics such as water body conservation and management, flood control, urban drainage systems, and public and tariff regulation.
- Orange Stage: Dedicated to discussions on management, energy recovery, and waste valorization, with an emphasis on the circular economy. Leading industry professionals will explore methods and alternatives to turn challenges into sustainable solutions.
- Demonstration Arena: Designed for live equipment presentations, offering over 2,000 m² of open space and completely free activation for exhibitors. It will operate daily from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM.
- Arena de Inovação e Startups: Espaço construído em parceria com a Isle Utilities, reunirá startups com soluções disruptivas em inteligência artificial, biotecnologia e gestão social inteligente.
“O público que comparecer ao evento ficará por dentro de todas as tendências do setor, com insights exclusivos de palestrantes internacionais que estão na vanguarda da sustentabilidade. Além disso, poderão testemunhar a eficiência das máquinas e equipamentos em ação, comprovando como a tecnologia é uma aliada indispensável. Logo, a IFAT Brasil é o espaço perfeito para conhecer as novidades do mercado e se inspirar com ideias que estão revolucionando o setor”, conclui Pickert.
Serviço
IFAT Brasil 2025
Date: June 25th to 27th, 2025
Location: São Paulo Expo – Sao Paulo – Brazil
Time: 1pm to 8pm
Free registration: click here
Mora information: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Colombia Wastes 43% of Its Drinking Water During Distribution
12.5% of Colombians Lack Access to Adequate Sources of Drinking Water, According to Frost & Sullivan Report in Partnership with IFAT Brasil
São Paulo, March 2025 – Colombia loses 43% of its drinking water during distribution to the population, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan in partnership with IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions). Additionally, 2.3% of Colombians do not have access to adequate sources of drinking water. When considering the rural population, this figure increases nearly sixfold, reaching 12.5% of people.
Regarding the total population, 97.7% of Colombians have access to adequate sources of drinking water, while 97% have access to proper sanitation facilities. Considering the rural population, 87.5% and 87.7% have access, respectively, to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities.
“Colombia still faces significant drinking water losses, which affect not only the country’s economy and sustainable development but also public health. These data can serve as a starting point for public policy adjustments and increased investments in the sector,” comments Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil, the largest international environmental technologies fair in Latin America.
According to Fredrick Royan, Global Practice Leader for Sustainability and Circular Economy (SCE) at Frost & Sullivan, the study includes detailed data from Colombia and other South American countries, providing “reliable, real-time data” to support “efficiency improvements and informed decision-making affecting processes related to water, energy, and materials.”
The report also highlights revenue collected at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), reaching US$ 1.28 billion in 2022; 80% of this amount is municipal, while 20% is industrial.
Opportunities
The report also highlights revenue generated at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), totaling US$ 1.44 billion in 2022. However, despite having 712 treatment plants, only 49% of wastewater is safely treated, with a target to increase this percentage to 68% by 2030. The share of residential wastewater treated safely is 58%, with a goal of 65% by 2030.
In 2025, Colombia is projected to have a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$ 419.3 billion, with expectations to grow to US$ 511.2 billion by 2029, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. The Colombian economy is diversified, with 56.9% of GDP from services, 24.6% from industry, and 8.7% from agriculture, indicating a strong trend toward tertiary activities. This economic growth reflects Colombia’s domestic market potential and opportunities in the water treatment and sanitation sector.
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Roadshow
The data were presented at two in-person events held on February 25 (Bogotá) and February 27 (Medellín). In addition to Colombia, the Roadshow also includes Bolivia, Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Peru.
The IFAT Brasil Roadshow aims to provide information on environmental technologies in each country, promote high-quality discussions with renowned experts, and disseminate reliable and relevant data so that industry players can make the best decisions regarding public health and wellbeing.
Additionally, the event organizers aim to strengthen relationships with representatives from South American countries to encourage participation in the second edition of IFAT Brasil, taking place in São Paulo from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo.
For the full schedule and participation details, click here.
O credenciamento da IFAT Brasil é gratuito e pode ser feito neste link.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
IFAT Brasil Shares Environmental Technology Data in Latin America Roadshow
Latin America’s Largest Environmental Technology Fair Hosts Meetings with Regional Leaders to Strengthen Connections with the Event in Brazil in June
São Paulo, March 2025 – IFAT Brasil, the largest international environmental technology fair in Latin America, has launched a Latin America roadshow to present data on the sector as well as investment and business opportunities in the region.
The IFAT Brasil Roadshow aims to provide information on environmental technologies in each country, promote high-quality discussions with renowned experts, and disseminate reliable and relevant data so that industry players can make the best decisions regarding public health and wellbeing.
Additionally, the event organizers aim to strengthen relationships with representatives from South American countries to encourage participation in the second edition of IFAT Brasil, taking place in São Paulo from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo.
The Roadshow includes webinars and events in six countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Paraguay, and Peru. On February 4, IFAT Brasil kicked off the tour in Bolivia with the webinar “Challenges in Water and Sanitation Management: Towards a Healthy Life and a Sustainable Future”, featuring Carla Elias, representative of the Bolivian Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering.
On February 20, a webinar was held in Peru with Wilian Gonzales, General Manager and International Consultant at Flowen, presenting “Key Technologies for Wastewater Reuse: Equipment and Design Parameters through Commissioning”, addressing innovative solutions for wastewater treatment and reuse.
On February 25 in Bogotá, Colombia, the event featured three speakers:
Natasha Avendaño, General Manager of Bogotá Aqueduct and Sewage Company (EAAB), presenting “Sanitation of the Bogotá River, Canoas WWTP”, highlighting efforts for river recovery and sanitation;
Andrea Yáñez, Director of the Bogotá Water Fund, discussing “Corporate Water Management from Hydrological Impact”, emphasizing efficient water resource management by companies;
Tania Chacín, Sustainability Director at El Dorado Airport, sharing insights on “El Dorado: A Sustainable Airport”, highlighting sustainability initiatives implemented at the airport.
On February 27 in Medellín, Colombia, highlights included:
Verónica De Vivero, Director of Socya, presenting “Towards Circular Territories”, addressing the transition to a circular economy in the region;
Mauricio González, Waste Management and Circular Economy Manager at Grupo EPM, presenting “Circular Economy and Waste Management: We Are All One!”, emphasizing the integration of sustainable practices in waste management.
According to Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil, reliable and relevant information is essential for industry players to make the best decisions, directly impacting public health and wellbeing.
“Since IFAT is an international fair, we want to reinforce through this Latin America roadshow that discussions on topics of such importance cannot be limited by national borders. The exchange of data, information, and perspectives from players across different sectors and regions allows the industry to advance more qualitatively,” he states.
According to Fredrick Royan, Global Practice Leader for Sustainability and Circular Economy (SCE) at Frost & Sullivan, the detailed survey of South American countries helps provide “reliable, real-time data” for “efficiency improvements and informed decision-making affecting processes related to water, energy, and materials.”
“By analyzing regional trends, technological advances, and disparities, this information aims to empower individuals—from policymakers to industry stakeholders—to drive productivity,” adds Royan.
ROADSHOW CALENDAR
The complete schedule of the roadshows is as follows. To follow updates and register, click here:
March 2025
- March 13: In-person event in Lima, Peru, from 3:00 PM local time at the National Office of the Lima Industries Society. Speakers: Javier Perla Alvarez (SGS Peru) and Alejandro Conza (HIDRIKA). Register here;
- March 19: Online webinars for Argentina, Chile, and Paraguay, starting at 9:00 AM (Brazil time). Confirmed speakers: Elizabet Wehncke (Argentina), postdoctoral researcher at the California Biodiversity Research Center (BRCC), presenting “Green Solutions for Sustainable Water Management in Industry”; Sigde Mamani (Chile), CEO of SigMatech, presenting “Bioremediation in Mining: Innovative Solutions for Water Management”. Register here;
- March 25: In-person event in Paraguay at 9:30 AM (Brazil time), location: AHK office in Asunción. Topics and speakers to be confirmed. Check the event page for updates;
- March 27: In-person event in Chile, time to be confirmed, location: Hotel Olá, Santiago. Speaker to be confirmed.
April 2025
- April 1: In-person event in Argentina at 10:00 AM (Brasília time), location: AHK Buenos Aires office. Speaker to be confirmed.
Entrance to IFAT Brasil for both the fair and congresses is free for industry professionals. Registration can be completed via this link.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT Worldwide network, the global leader in environmental technologies, comprising 12 events in 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Guilherme Kamio - guilherme.kamio@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Colombia Wastes 43% of Its Drinking Water During Distribution
12.5% of Colombians Lack Access to Adequate Drinking Water Sources, According to Frost & Sullivan Report in Partnership with IFAT Brasil
São Paulo, March 2025 Colombia wastes 43% of its drinking water during distribution to the population, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan in partnership with IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions). In addition, 2.3% of Colombians do not have access to adequate drinking water sources. When considering the rural population, this figure rises almost sixfold, reaching 12.5% of people.
Regarding the total population, 97.7% of Colombians have access to adequate sources of drinking water, while 97% have access to proper sanitation facilities. Considering the rural population, 87.5% and 87.7% have access, respectively, to safe drinking water and adequate sanitation facilities.
“Colombia still faces significant drinking water losses, which affect not only the economy and sustainable development of the country but also public health. These data can serve as a starting point for the readjustment of public policies and additional investments in the sector,” says Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil, the largest international environmental technology fair in Latin America.
According to Fredrick Royan, Global Practice Leader for Sustainability and Circular Economy (SCE) at Frost & Sullivan, the study includes detailed data from Colombia and other South American countries, providing “reliable, real-time data” to support “efficiency improvements and informed decision-making affecting processes related to water, energy, and materials.”
The report also highlights revenue collected at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), reaching US$ 1.28 billion in 2022; 80% of this amount is municipal, while 20% is industrial.
Opportunities
The report also highlights revenue generated at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), totaling US$ 1.44 billion in 2022. However, despite having 712 treatment plants, only 49% of wastewater is safely treated, with a target to increase this percentage to 68% by 2030. The share of residential wastewater treated safely is 58%, with a goal of 65% by 2030.
In 2025, Colombia is projected to have a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of US$ 419.3 billion, with expectations to grow to US$ 511.2 billion by 2029, according to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. The Colombian economy is diversified, with 56.9% of GDP from services, 24.6% from industry, and 8.7% from agriculture, indicating a strong trend toward tertiary activities. This economic growth reflects Colombia’s domestic market potential and opportunities in the water treatment and sanitation sector.
The need to expand infrastructure to reduce distribution losses, combined with efforts to meet wastewater treatment expansion targets, paves the way for modernization and expansion projects in water supply and treatment networks.
Roadshow
The data were presented at two in-person events held on February 25 (Bogotá) and February 27 (Medellín). In addition to Colombia, the Roadshow also includes Bolivia, Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Peru.
The IFAT Brasil Roadshow aims to provide information on environmental technologies in each country, promote high-quality discussions with renowned experts, and disseminate reliable and relevant data so that industry players can make the best decisions regarding public health and wellbeing.
Additionally, the event organizers aim to strengthen relationships with representatives from South American countries to encourage participation in the second edition of IFAT Brasil, taking place in São Paulo from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo.
To keep up with the schedule and learn how to participate, click here .
Registration for IFAT Brasil is free and can be completed at this link.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to boost the emerging environmental technologies market in Brazil and across Latin America The event is organized and promoted by Messe Muenchen do Brasil and positions itself as a platform for connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together in a single environment all solutions for water and sewage management, drainage, sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery solutions. The event is recognized for fostering debates on the main challenges and key topics in the sector with international experts. IFAT Brasil is part of IFAT Worldwide, the world’s leading network of environmental technology fairs, which comprises 12 events in 8 countries, featuring exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from more than 155 countries. IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions) primarily aims to boost the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and across Latin America.
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Jorge Soufen - jorge.junior@2pro.com.br
Half of Bolivia’s Rural Population Lacks Access to Sewage Networks
2 in 10 Bolivians Lack Access to Adequate Sewage Systems, According to Frost & Sullivan Report in Partnership with IFAT Brasil
São Paulo, March 2025 – Half of Bolivia’s rural population (51.6%) does not have access to adequate sanitation facilities, according to a report by Frost & Sullivan in partnership with IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions). The study also highlights that, considering the total population of the country, 2 in 10 Bolivians lack access to proper basic sanitation infrastructure.
Regarding drinking water sources, 93.5% of the total population has access. However, this figure drops to 80.2% when analyzing the rural population.
“These data reveal that Bolivia still faces challenges in ensuring universal access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation, especially in rural areas,” says Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizer of IFAT Brasil, the largest international environmental technology fair in Latin America.
Fredrick Royan, Global Practice Area Leader for Sustainability and Circular Economy (SCE) at Frost & Sullivan, adds that the survey includes detailed data from Bolivia and other South American countries, which helps obtain “reliable, real-time data” for “efficiency improvements as well as informed decision-making, affecting processes related to water, energy, and materials.”
The report also highlights revenue collected at Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), reaching US$ 1.28 billion in 2022; 80% of this amount is municipal, while 20% is industrial.
Opportunities
The report also highlights an increase in the number of Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs), reaching 219 in 2024. The percentage of domestic wastewater treated safely is 58%, with a target to reach 65% by 2030.
According to the International Monetary Fund (IMF), Bolivia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), estimated at USD 51.3 billion in 2024, is expected to reach USD 65.7 billion by 2029. The population, currently 12.2 million, is projected to reach 13.4 million by 2030, according to the World Bank.
The GDP growth indicates a favorable economic environment for investments in the sector. The need to expand infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, combined with the goal of increasing wastewater treatment, opens the door for modernization and expansion projects in supply and treatment networks. Furthermore, the agricultural sector, which accounts for the largest share of water withdrawals in the country, presents opportunities for the development of technologies and efficient water use practices.
“Investment in infrastructure and wastewater treatment is crucial for the sustainable development of the country,” emphasizes Pickert.
Roadshow
The data were presented in a webinar on February 4. This was the first in a series of online and in-person events taking place across South America in the coming months. In addition to Bolivia, the Roadshow has already visited Colombia and will travel to Argentina, Chile, Paraguay, and Peru.
The IFAT Brasil Roadshow aims to provide information about environmental technologies in each country, promote high-quality discussions with renowned experts, and disseminate reliable and relevant data so that industry players can make informed decisions, directly impacting public health and well-being.
In addition, the event organizers aim to strengthen relationships with representatives from South American countries to encourage participation in the second edition of IFAT Brasil, which will take place in São Paulo from June 25 to 27 at the São Paulo Expo.
To keep up with the schedule and learn how to participate, click here.
IFAT Brasil registration is free and can be completed here.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to drive the emerging environmental technology market in Brazil and throughout Latin America. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the event serves as a platform connecting various market stakeholders, bringing together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single space. The fair is recognized for facilitating debates on key sector challenges with international experts. IFAT Brasil is Part of IFAT Worldwide, the Global Leader in Environmental Technologies
The network includes 12 events across 8 countries, with exhibitors from 59 nationalities and visitors from over 155 countries.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Guilherme Kamio - guilherme.kamio@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
IFAT Brasil 2025: Second Edition of the Fair Brings New Attractions and Projects Record Growth
- Latin America’s Largest Environmental Technology Fair Introduces Three Thematic Discussion Stages and Expects 300 Exhibitors in Its Second Edition in Brazil, in June
São Paulo, January 2025 – IFAT Brasilthe largest international environmental technology fair in Latin America, will hold its second edition in São Paulo from June 25 to 27 at São Paulo Expo, featuring new attractions in its program. In addition to a projected 90% increase in the number of exhibitors, with at least 300 brands participating, the event will feature three new spaces dedicated to debates and presentations on the most relevant topics in the sector.
at Blue Stagethe focus will be on intelligent water management, covering topics such as the conservation and management of water bodies, flood control, urban drainage systems, and public and tariff regulation. Experts will discuss strategies to ensure water supply for future generations, as well as innovative technologies like digitalization and artificial intelligence to optimize water systems.
At the Orange Stage will be dedicated to discussions on management, energy recovery, and waste valorization, with an emphasis on the circular economy. Topics such as recycling, upcycling, environmental regulation for waste management, and energy generation from waste will be explored by leading industry professionals, offering methods and alternatives to transform challenges into sustainable solutions.
Completing the program, the Innovation and Startups Arena será o espaço de vanguarda do evento, reunindo empresas com soluções disruptivas em inteligência artificial, biotecnologia e gestão social inteligente. Palestras e demonstrações vão abordar tecnologias para eficiência energética, pesquisa e desenvolvimento em processos de tratamento biológico e projetos que promovem a inclusão social por meio de inovação.
“Our goal is to consolidate IFAT Brasil as the epicenter for discussions on the main trends in the sector, especially at a time when topics such as sustainability, sanitation, and natural resource management are essential for society,” explains Renan Andreguetto, IFAT Brasil Manager.
In its last edition, in 2024, IFAT Brasil generated BRL 500 million and demonstrated its strategic role in the environmental sector. The fair continues to expand, with a larger exhibition area and an increasingly diversified program, establishing itself as the main meeting point for companies, professionals, and institutions seeking innovative and sustainable solutions.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to boost the emerging environmental technologies market in Brazil and across Latin America The event is organized and promoted by Messe Muenchen do Brasil and seeks to connect diverse market stakeholders by bringing together, in a single environment, all solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery solutions. In addition, the fair promotes debates on the main topics and challenges facing the sector. IFAT Brasil is part of IFAT Worldwide, the global leading network in environmental technologies, which comprises 11 events and has over 50 years of experience in the exhibition industry.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Roseanne Café – roseanne.cafe@2pro.com.br
Guilherme Kamio - guilherme.kamio@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
Study Estimates BRL 387 Billion Will Be Invested in Water and Sewage in Brazil by 2040
- Research conducted by IFAT Brasil, in partnership with Pezco Economics and Resolux Company, shows that investments in water and sewage are advancing, while the solid waste sector still requires incentives.
São Paulo, November 2024 A study conducted by IFAT Brasil together with Pezco Economics and Resolux Company revealed that by 2040, BRL 387 billion will be invested in water and sewage infrastructure. This amount reflects a more favorable investment environment for the sector compared to previous scenarios, but still indicates a shortfall relative to the estimates needed to achieve universal access by 2033.
The study indicates an average of BRL 25 billion per year over the next three years, using a bottom-up approach that considers project-specific characteristics rather than macroeconomic assumptions, including tendered projects, studies in progress, public consultations with banks, and resources allocated to fixed infrastructure.
The information is based on PPP projects, financial modelers, and expansion plans of concessionaires and service operators. Of the BRL 387 billion, 42% will be allocated to operators’ expansion and investment plans, 35% are contracted in concessions and PPPs, with disbursements planned through 2040, 21% are in the study and modeling phase by financial agencies and modeler banks, and 2% are under public consultation and bidding to begin studies, but with investments already projected through 2040.
Challenges in Solid Waste Sector
The solid waste sector shows a more critical scenario. With a projected investment need of BRL 101 billion by 2040, only BRL 3.2 billion are currently included in projects supported by modeler banks and financial tools. Despite a high average urban solid waste collection coverage in Brazil (90.4%), only 22% of waste is disposed of in proper facilities, and less than 3% of recyclable materials are recovered.
Although conditions have improved compared to previous periods, driven by social integration agendas and environmental demands for proper urban waste disposal (including landfill closures), solid waste still requires greater financial and technological incentives.
Drainage and Infrastructure
Drainage, a key component of sanitation, has gained attention due to recent hydrological events. With more than 29,000 high-risk hydrological events per year, only 26% of Brazilian municipalities have mapped flood-prone areas, a crucial basis for infrastructure projects and planning. From 2017 to 2022, municipalities declared BRL 29 billion in infrastructure investments for regulation and drainage, while the estimated cost to meet the National Basic Sanitation Plan is BRL 250 billion by 2033.
“Since the enactment of the regulatory framework in 2020, Brazil has received three times the total investment of the previous three decades in just four years. Debentures and the capital market are tools enabled by greater legal security. Increasing investments under these new structures also fosters technological growth, particularly in mechanized equipment embedded with technologies to meet efficiency indicators in sanitation services,” explains Renan Andreguetto, IFAT Brasil Manager.
Regional Distribution and Sector Growth
Investments will not be evenly distributed across Brazil’s five regions. The Southeast and Northeast are expected to concentrate 45% of total investments (24% and 21%, respectively). These regions, with 84.8 million and 54.6 million inhabitants, together account for 68.7% of Brazil’s population.
According to Andreguetto, population density and regional regulatory governance are the main factors influencing the distribution of investments and planned projects. The North region, with 17.3 million inhabitants (slightly more than the Central-West’s 16.3 million), is projected to receive only 2% of the investments, reflecting a slower population growth rate (0.75% vs. 1.23%).
According to Andreguetto, population density and regional regulatory governance are the main factors influencing the distribution of investments and planned projects. The North region, with 17.3 million inhabitants (slightly more than the Central-West’s 16.3 million), is projected to receive only 2% of the investments, reflecting a slower population growth rate (0.75% vs. 1.23%).
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Regulatory Framework Drives Diversification and Investment
Various regulatory and support tools have created a favorable investment environment and legal security, resulting in a more diversified sector, with greater availability of financial instruments and increased appetite for technological development after four years of the Regulatory Framework.
From 2015 to 2024, the incentivized debenture market grew 50%, with over BRL 42 million issued by 2024. Public consultations and financing project contracts through modeler banks also grew by an average of 30% over the last four years.
The regulatory framework has encouraged demand and supply diversification. Around 267 private companies provide public services in water distribution, sewage collection, and treatment, representing approximately 5% of all providers under direct administration or autarchies.
Water and sewage services are fully regionalized in 23 of 26 states (excluding the Federal District). Only Amapá (with a pre-regulatory model), Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais remain partially regionalized.
About IFAT Brasil
IFAT Brasil (International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions) aims to boost the emerging environmental technologies market in Brazil and across Latin America The event is organized and promoted by Messe Muenchen do Brasil and seeks to connect diverse market stakeholders by bringing together, in a single environment, all solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sanitation infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery solutions. In addition, the fair promotes debates on the main topics and challenges facing the sector. IFAT Brasil is part of IFAT Worldwide, the global leading network in environmental technologies, which comprises 11 events and has over 50 years of experience in the exhibition industry.
2PRÓ Comunicação
Roseanne Café – roseanne.cafe@2pro.com.br
Guilherme Kamio - guilherme.kamio@2pro.com.br
Carolina Mendes - carolina.mendes@2pro.com.br
First edition of IFAT Brasil exceeds expectations and brings together more than 20 thousand sanitation professionals
- More than 160 brands from 16 countries on more than 11.000 square meters
- More than 20 thousand visits from 50 countries and all states of Brazil
- 132 speakers from 10 countries and
- 71 hours of content
IFAT international partners such as DWA, ISWA, BID, RETech, AIDIS, APIHA, NWP, GWP and GIZ on site
The first edition of IFAT Brasil, the International Trade Fair for Water, Sewerage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, was a watershed event for Brazil's sanitation market, presenting the main global technologies to contribute to the goal of universalizing water and sewerage services to the Brazilian people by the year 2033. The event, organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil between April 24 and 26 in São Paulo, brought together more than 160 national and international brands from 16 countries.
During the three-day event, the São Paulo Expo welcomed more than 20 thousand visitors from 50 countries. The audience was considered by the exhibitors to be highly qualified, as it was made up of representatives from city halls, state, municipal and federal departments, agencies and regulatory bodies, environmental engineers, private water, sewage and solid waste management operators, environmental engineers, industry entrepreneurs, development agencies, investors, academia and research and innovation institutes and startups.
“We have achieved our goal of connecting the main environmental solutions and technologies with all the stakeholders in sanitation, providing the best environment for relationships, knowledge and business for the exhibitors and participating professionals. Certainly, this meeting will be important for the sector, generating opportunities to improve the existing infrastructure for the installation of new structures that meet the demands of the population,” says Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil.
Renan Utri Andreguetto, manager of IFAT Brasil, pointed out that environmental technology is a strong ally in achieving the universalization of treated water supply and sewage collection and treatment in Brazil and throughout the region, but also in addressing the challenges related to urban drainage and solid waste management, including the eradication of landfill sites, advancing recycling levels and its application as an energy solution. “The fair brought together the main solutions and innovations used in these areas in various countries around the world, pointing out trends and some ways in which they can be applied in the region to benefit people.”
Over 71 hours of content events
The meeting point for sanitation in Latin America, IFAT Brasil was also key to debating the main issues related to the sector, presenting cases in environmental technologies, revealing market trends, evaluating solutions to challenges in the area and bringing government, local authorities, investors and operators closer to manufacturers, industries, companies and sanitation service providers.
The IFAT Brasil International Congress, the Speakers Corners and the Innovation Pavilion, in partnership with ISLE Utilities, one of the world's largest intelligence agencies on innovation in the water sector, promoted over 71 hours of content over the three days of the event, with the participation of 132 specialists from Brazil and abroad.
The Congress agenda included, for example, the participation of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES), the National Water and Basic Sanitation Agency (ANA), the Department of Water and Electric Energy (DAEE), an authority of the São Paulo state government. International partners included: the Inter-American Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering (AIDIS), the International Solid Waste Association (ISWA), the German Association of Industrial Machinery and Plant Manufacturers (VDMA) and ISLE Utilities. Of the national organizations, the following organized events: Brazilian Portland Cement Association (ABCP), ABES-RS (Brazilian Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, Rio Grande do Sul Section), ABIMAQ (Brazilian Association of the Machinery and Equipment Industry), ABIOGÁS (Brazilian Biogas Association), ABREMA (Brazilian Association of Waste and Environmental Companies), ABREN (Brazilian Waste Energy Recovery Association), Brazil-Germany Chamber (AHK do Brasil) and Instituto Trata Brasil.
The Innovation Pavilion was the epicenter of the latest discoveries and technological advances in the sector, showing the potential for growth and better service provision in sanitation. The IFAT Brasil Innovative Technology Award was held there, honoring companies (LG Sonic – Netherlands; Colifast – Norway; Renix - Canada) for their technologies and contributions that are transforming the market. This initiative was attended by the Netherlands Water Partnership and Xylem Vue powered by GoAigua as main sponsors; and SABESP and SANEPAR as institutional sponsors and juries of the competition.
The Speakers Corners attracted an audience interested in learning about the results of technologies applied by pioneering and leading companies in the environmental technology sector: Acqua Expert, B&F Dias, Bentley, Huber, Provedal, Sparkio, and Vibropac.
University Challenge
IFAT Brasil hosted the first edition of the University Challenge, an important global engineering student competition promoted by the German Water, Wastewater and Waste Association (DWA), which arrived in Brazil with the institutional support of the German House of Science and Innovation (DWIH) São Paulo.
The eight groups made up of engineering students carried out tasks in different disciplines, such as walking around the fair's European companies area and choosing two solutions that could be implemented in Brazilian cities. For students Arthur Anhaia, Maria Morais and Murillo Bednarczuk, from the 5th period of the civil engineering course at the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), taking part in the challenge and finding out about the solutions proposed by the companies broadened their view of the market by understanding how the technologies are implemented.
“We came to learn more about sanitary structuring. And at IFAT Brasil, we discovered that the solutions go far beyond sanitary structuring. We found applications in hydraulics, fluid mechanics and other areas that we studied in our course,” said the students. “The experience was incredible and we're going to take a lot of lessons back to our degree,” they concluded.
Check out the testimonials of some of the exhibitors who took part in IFAT Brasil 2024:
“SABESP programmed 19 courses, offered over the three days. More than 50 people took part in each of them, with total interactivity. Approximately 1,000 people took part in this initiative, which demonstrates the visitors' interest in essentially technical information. IFAT is one of the world's largest trade fairs in the sector. And for SABESP, an exponent in the area of sanitation in São Paulo and a reference for the whole of Brazil, participation was fundamental. We met potential partners, always with a favorable interactivity. It was an opportunity to show our company's demands and generate an even closer relationship with the technical public, as well as promoting various understandings with suppliers.”
Cristina Knörich Zuffo - Superintendent of Research, Development and Innovation at SABESP
We were surprised, we didn't expect the number of qualified visitors we had at our stand, not just Brazilians, but many Spanish speakers. I'd like to take this opportunity to congratulate Renan Andreguett on his roadshow to Latin America. It was very important because we have everything it takes to be a benchmark in the region. We'll definitely be here again next time.
Estela Testa - president of Sindesam
“As a German company, we have attended every edition of IFAT in Germany. That's why this fair is extremely familiar to us. When we heard there was going to be the first Brazilian edition, we immediately decided to take part, with the intention of getting to know the event as part of the culture of the national market. Many of our clients were unfamiliar with it worldwide. We decided to invite them to visit us to take part in our decision. We were rewarded with a very busy fair, with a good level of visits and technical consultations, resulting from a professional audience.”
Erick Vitorino - Managing Director of ACO
“We at Albrecht were very pleased to take part in this first edition of IFAT Brasil. It really was surprising, extraordinary! For both exhibitors and visitors, it was a very enriching event. We can only be grateful for the opportunity to have this event here in Brazil.”
Christine Albrecht Althoff - Managing Director Albrecht
“We had high expectations of IFAT because we had already been to the fair in other countries and knew how strong it was. And we wanted to see if this would translate to Brazil. We thought the choice of venue and the partnership with M&T Expo was very good because the combination of the two brought in a lot of visitors. In short, the fair far exceeded our expectations. What also caught our attention was that we had a high number of technical visitors and that was excellent. There were times when we didn't even have enough space to accommodate everyone on the stand.”
William Padilha - Director of New Business at the Ambiensys Group
“Ambipar's main objective in this first national edition of IFAT is to position the company as a global solutions platform, focusing on waste management, recovery and circularity, as well as the management and conscious use of water and effluents. Without a doubt, our participation is generating potential leads.”
Juliana Coutinho - Ambipar's commercial manager
“This fair totally met our expectations. It's natural to compare it with other events we've been to, and we realized that at IFAT the quantity of visitors is on a par with the quality of the public, unlike other events, where there are a lot of visitors, but few of them are actually potential customers. Our aim, for a first edition, is to get a feel for what the market is currently looking for. That's why we're taking part in this event with the aim of demonstrating products, listening to what customers want and networking. In other words, we are measuring the temperature of this market, which is undoubtedly technical. And IFAT proved to be a good thermometer.”
Roberto Horii - Business Development Manager at Atlas Copco
“As it is already a well-known and respected trade fair abroad, B&F Dias decided to bet on this first opportunity for the event in Brazil. There was some doubt as to whether we would get a good return or not and we were surprised by the number of opportunities that were generated and the quality of the visitors. We will definitely take part in the next edition. We received a lot of visits from people from Latin America and managed to get closer to an audience that was a bit distant for us.”
Felipe Medeiros - technical-commercial manager of the Wastewater Division at B&F Dias
“We're very pleased with the fair, with many new contacts. Our nebulizer cannons for containing particles in the atmosphere are being very well received by the public.”
André Felipe Costa de Souza - CEO of CHB Rental
“I can say that our presence at this fair was very good in every way: in terms of organization, attendance, results and publicity. In my opinion, holding two simultaneous fairs contributed to the increase in visitors and created a healthy synergy between the two audiences, who came from all over Brazil and were willing to generate good business. One fair worked very well with the other. I believe that the next IFAT will be bigger. It's not a quantitative fair, but a qualitative one, attracting professionals. This is the audience that interests us. A fair of IFAT's level speeds up negotiations, generates opportunities and encourages the dissemination of technical knowledge.”
Arnaldo Casselli - Commercial Director of Envimat
“The first IFAT brought together an audience of excellent technical quality, a fact that is not common at other fairs, which attract many onlookers. It was a well-targeted fair, which was well publicized and attracted foreign visitors. With a more select audience, we were able to give better attention to everyone who visited us. In addition, IFAT helped us to establish our brand, because we wanted to present the new GF+FGS identity. We were able to make effective negotiations, which could bear good fruit after the fair.”
Adriano Meirelles - Commercial Director - GF+FGS
Expectations were fully met, exceeded in fact. From the very first day, our stand was very busy. We saw a lot of people from other Latin American countries, which is very interesting, as they are always looking to export and IFAT is making this much easier. For our segment, trade fairs work a lot to strengthen relationships, which is very important for us.”
Flávio Alcantara, director of Hidro Solo
“Most of the visitors to IFAT 2024 are already our clients and most of them work with public cleaning companies for city halls. The fair attracted professionals from all over Brazil, coming from all regions, as well as those from Mercosur. I understand that taking part in a trade fair doesn't always make it possible to negotiate on the spot, but it does encourage networking and longer-lasting contacts. In other words, customer service at trade fairs requires time for negotiations to mature, especially when it comes to concessionaires or public companies, because everything is based on tenders. The first edition of IFAT allowed us to realize that we are facing a promising event in Brazil, maintaining the concept of the renowned editions that take place in other countries.”
Luiz Antonio Carvalho - Commercial Director at Planalto
“We're feeling the results of this fair, as it's the first edition. So everything is very new, but we already feel that the event has exceeded our expectations. And just like us exhibitors, the visitors are also getting to know the fair without having too many pretensions. We welcome many visitors from Mercosur, but also from all over the country, including distant states such as Pará, Alagoas and Rio Grande do Sul. Of course, the vast majority are from São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro. It's a filtered audience, who know what they want and are looking for essentially technical knowledge. I felt that 75% of the visitors were specialized professionals. If the event takes place next year, our company will have a confirmed presence, because the market was missing a trade fair specializing in sanitation. It happened at an excellent time.”
Eduardo Coelho - partner-owner of Prensmaq
“An event that attracted many professionals and entrepreneurs from Mercosur. Of course, the number of visits from Brazilians is much higher, but our stand also attracted many Uruguayans, Canadians, Chileans and Germans. This is because IFAT is a very strong trade fair abroad that attracts a professional audience. And because of this international strength, the fair attracted a quality of audience that surprised us. And I believe that the mixture of the two fairs aroused the curiosity of the M&T Expo public, which was very good for our company. Because we were able to present our product to people who didn't know about it. This is an event that offers information, learning and technology. As it was the first edition, it was very busy, allowing us to consolidate our commercial relationship with several clients, which we weren't expecting.”
Juliana Vecchi - Head of Marketing at Rotex
“A wonderful event, very well structured, which attracted the professionals who make decisions within the company. Around 80% of our visitors were people with extensive technical knowledge who work in public and private sanitation. We welcomed many visitors from Mercosur to our stand. So much so that I had to stay on the stand and it wasn't possible to visit the whole fair, due to the demand for visitors that I dealt with over the three days.”
Rogerio Serodio - Commercial Director at Sigma
“By coincidence, today we had breakfast with the Swiss consul to analyze the professional level of this fair. We were already familiar with IFAT in Monique and decided to try it out. We were very pleased to experience three days with a different kind of public, with an intense volume of visitors from the beginning to the end of the period between 1pm and 8pm. Many of them were unfamiliar with our solutions and, among these visits, we received professionals looking for suppliers for public companies that are preparing for privatization. The largest concentration was Brazilian, but the event attracted people from all over Latin America. This is a public that knows what it wants. And the very well targeted publicity helped create this level of visitation.”
Isadora Cataldo - Sulzer Marketing Manager
“Our company is celebrating winning the title of Exhibitor of the Year 2024, awarded by the organizers of IFAT 2024. This is already a source of pride for our company. But there is much more to celebrate. This fair has proved to be an opportunity for us to prospect new clients and we have welcomed large institutions to our stand who are looking for viable water treatment technologies. There were opportunities to generate new partnerships and participate in new projects. The event met our expectations, including helping us to publicize our brand by virtue of our participation. In other words, it's an event that contributes to projecting the participating companies.”
Jair José de Souza - Deputy Sales Director at Tequaly
“The fair is attracting visitors from all over Brazil and also from Mercosur, with a select profile. For an event in its first edition, IFAT 2024 surprised us with a specific audience, made up of consultants, engineers and sanitation professionals. It really is a very good fair. When we decided to take part, we didn't set ourselves the goal of generating business, but of promoting ourselves to exactly this audience.”
Ademir Albernas - VOGELSANG Business Manager
“IFAT 2024 has met our expectations and we are receiving a large contingent of visitors, which has really justified our investments in this event. The organization of the fair has focused its efforts on communication and marketing actions, which has reinforced the quality of the audience. We were able to expand our list of new clients and prospect for new business. It was an excellently organized fair, in which we felt assisted, with all the rules very well presented and a very well-structured production. We'll certainly be back for the next edition.”
Jesica Rocha Meneses - Marketing Director at Wilo
Companies and Organizations Discuss Financing Methane Emission Mitigation at IFAT Brasil
Effective strategies must not only address but transform mitigation challenges into sustainable opportunities, according to Gustavo Mendéz, water and sanitation specialist at the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Mendéz participated in the event “Too Good To Waste – Initiative to Mitigate Methane Emissions from Waste in Latin America and the Caribbean”, held during IFAT Brasil, the International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions, organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, which concluded on Friday, April 26.
“The low recycling rate amplifies the challenge. Furthermore, the size of cities and states highlights the need for scalable solutions, adaptable to both densely populated areas and more dispersed regions,” said Mendéz.
He added that the financial sustainability of the sector can be strengthened through tariff systems reflecting environmental costs and promoting proper solid waste disposal. “This strategy not only fosters efficient regulatory governance but also ensures the long-term economic viability of mitigation projects,” he emphasized.
Ugino Júnior, director at Ambiental Joinville, noted that direct solid waste collection fees included in local taxes currently occur only in Santa Catarina, with six concessions operating this model. “We charge an average fee of BRL 30 for residential waste collection,” he explained. In Joinville, the state’s third-largest city, the average fee is around BRL 28, with a delinquency rate between 5% and 6%, demonstrating the system’s efficiency. “Service quality is the main pillar; people do not refuse to pay for a service that works,” he concluded.
Brazil Has Solutions to Reduce Sanitation Deficits in Vulnerable Areas
Brazil possesses solutions to improve sanitation services in vulnerable regions. A study by the Instituto Trata Brasil, presented during IFAT Brasil, revealed that 50 million people lack daily access to water and around 4.4 million Brazilians do not have a bathroom in their homes.
The report highlights that the most affected populations are youth under 20 years old, self-declared Black, mixed-race, and Indigenous people, with household incomes up to BRL 2,400 and low education levels, living in precarious homes without treated water in kitchens and burning waste in backyards. “Sanitation provides the opportunity for a dignified life and a better future. Full access to sanitation could lift 32.7 million people out of extreme poverty,” stated Luana Pretto, executive president of Instituto Trata Brasil.
The Companhia de Saneamento de Minas Gerais (MG) implemented initiatives to reduce vulnerability in the state, ranging from corporate governance with community leaders to youth training and educational programs about water resource importance.
Tigre demonstrated that innovation can improve conditions in highly vulnerable areas through decentralized solutions. For example, a multifamily service model reduces operational costs, allowing more than 30 households to be served at a lower cost while promoting stream restoration in the region.
IFAT Brasil is organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Brazil Seeks Decarbonization Solutions with Biomethane
“Partnerships are needed to advance solutions. Neither Brazil nor the European Union has a silver bullet,” said Laurent Jauvadin, diplomat of the EU delegation, during the EUCD – European Union Climate Dialogues Part 1 panel at IFAT Brasil, emphasizing the need for collaboration to promote decarbonization through biomethane use.
Eduardo Santos, director of the Waste Management Department at Brazil’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, highlighted structural issues regarding the National Biomethane Policy, noting that biomethane use as a fuel substitute should be integrated into the waste sector. Additional considerations include proper solid waste disposal, as approximately 30% of waste remains unutilized due to improper disposal, and a national strategy for organic waste recovery.
Carina Dolabella, head of the Climate Change and Sustainability Advisory at São Paulo’s Environment Secretariat, emphasized that biomethane is a strategic agenda for the state, particularly to reduce emissions in the transportation sector. Other sectors with high decarbonization potential include waste management, sanitation, and sugar-energy, with initiatives by Invest SP attracting investment opportunities.
Helena Brandão, investment manager at ApexBrasil, stressed collaboration with associations and governments to attract foreign companies and foster partnerships with Brazilian companies. Ricardo Rosário, Advisor at São Paulo’s Agriculture and Supply Department, highlighted regulatory challenges, such as environmental licensing for biomethane production and developing integrated public-private business models. Marília Moreira, Director of Strategy and Intelligence at INVEST SP, noted the agency’s focus on energy transition, circular economy, and production chain densification, highlighting that 29% of state emissions come from transport and logistics.
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A IFAT Brasi by Messe Muenchen do Brasil.
IFAT Brasil: IDB Initiative Aims to Reduce Methane Emissions in Latin America and the Caribbean
The Too Good to Waste initiative, led by the IDB, seeks to cut methane emissions by 30% through the implementation of solid waste management projects in Latin America and the Caribbean. The call for proposals is open until June 17.
Gustavo Mendez highlighted that IFAT Brasil is an ideal platform to promote and train partners for the initiative. According to 2021 data, the solid waste sector is the third-largest methane emitter worldwide.
“However, a recurring problem is the lack of data. We need to constantly improve the availability of sector information,” warned Magda Correal, senior specialist in the IDB Water and Sanitation division, noting that 60% of generated methane is not captured. She also emphasized the need for organic waste treatment systems and a specialized division for this type of waste.
Mitigation strategies should focus on three main pillars: waste management chain, organic waste separation, and professionalization of the sector. “Proper waste management and the transition to a circular economy are key to mitigating methane,” concluded Correal.
IFAT Brasil: a convergence platform for the environmental technologies market towards a sustainable future
The universalization of basic sanitation, circular economy, and the recovery and management of solid waste are key themes of IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, which opened on Wednesday, April 24, at São Paulo Expo.
“IFAT Brasil was designed to be a hub for the sanitation market in South America, connecting leading environmental solutions and technologies with industry, service providers, representatives from different levels of government, regulatory agencies, financial institutions, private sanitation operators, infrastructure companies, startups, academia, research and innovation institutes, and other stakeholders. The goal is to help enhance existing infrastructure and support the implementation of new structures that meet population needs,” stated Rolf Pickert, CEO of Messe Muenchen do Brasil, during the opening ceremony of the fair.
Echoing Pickert’s words, Stefan Rummel, CEO of Messe München, emphasized that IFAT “marks the beginning of building not only an event but also a better future for Brazil, South America, and with impacts worldwide. In this way, IFAT will reach a highly significant audience and scope.”
Rodrigo Ravena, Secretary of Green and Environmental Affairs of the city of São Paulo, highlighted the importance of hosting IFAT Brasil in São Paulo and stressed the relevance of submitting proposals to the city government for review and potential inclusion in waste treatment projects. He urged that the discussions held at IFAT be shared with the secretariat. “Every human action impacts the environment, which is why we need concrete green treatment solutions for water and waste,” he pointed out.
In his address, Eduardo Corrêa Tavares, National Secretary of Funds and Financial Instruments (SNFI) at the Ministry of Integration and Regional Development, underlined the importance of bringing sustainability and circular economy discourse into concrete action to guide public policy development. “A fair like IFAT is essential to plan and discuss the future,” he said.
The opening ceremony was also attended by Joseph Weiss, Deputy Consul General of the Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany; Paula Violante, Director of Engineering and Innovation; and Osmário Ferreira da Silva, Executive Secretary of Urban Cleaning (Selimp - SMSUB).
IFAT Brasil: Municipalities with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants working to meet landfill closure deadline
The closure of open dumps in Brazil, mandated by Law 14.026 of 2020, requires municipalities with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants (according to the 2010 Census) to eliminate dumpsites by August 2, 2024. During the “Abrema Panel – Panorama of Landfill Closures in Brazil,” held at IFAT Brasil, Eduardo Rocha Dias Santos, Director of the Department of Waste Management at the National Secretariat for Urban Environment and Environmental Quality of the Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MMA), stated that there are still more than 2,800 dumps in this category.
In the State of Minas Gerais, for instance, out of 853 municipalities, around 230 still have dumps to be eradicated. Several programs are underway to address this challenge, as explained by Marília Carvalho de Melo, Secretary of State for Environment and Sustainable Development of Minas Gerais. The approach considers regional characteristics and involves supporting the structuring of associations and cooperatives according to the type and volume of materials.
“Our main challenge—and perhaps the greatest difficulty—involves the human process: the social integration of waste pickers and their transformation into recyclers,” she stressed, also listing other challenges such as the regulation of solid waste disposal licensing.
Two additional case studies were presented during the panel: one from Itacaré (BA), presented by Hélinah Cardoso Moreira, Project Director at Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH; and another from Basurales, in the Argentine province of Santa Fe, described by Marcelo Rosso, Board Member of ISWA – International Solid Waste Association and Regional Chapter Representative of ISWA LAC.
A moderação do painel foi de Pedro Maranhão, presidente da Abrema.
This Thursday (March 14), Event in Porto Alegre (RS) Discusses Implementation of Sustainable Wastewater Treatment Plants
The Rio Grande do Sul chapter of the Brazilian Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering (Abes-RS) will host an event this Thursday, March 14, starting at 4:30 p.m., to address the feasibility of implementing Sustainable Wastewater Treatment Plants (WWTPs) in Brazil. The seminar, entitled “Sanitation Dialogues: Sustainable WWTPs – Utopia or Reality?”, is supported by IFAT Brasil – International Trade Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions and will take place at the Senge-RS auditorium, located at Avenida Érico Veríssimo, 960, Porto Alegre.
The meeting will explore the practical feasibility of implementing and operating sustainable WWTPs, as well as appropriate technologies for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment. Presentations will include chemical engineer Karla Cypriano, from the Rio Grande do Sul Sanitation Company (CORSAN), and Professor Salatiel Wohlmuth da Silva, researcher at the Hydraulics Research Institute of the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS) and faculty member in the Graduate Program in Water Resources and Environmental Sanitation.
During the event, Paulo Robinson da Silva Samuel, president of Abes-RS, will present an overview of the association, while Renan Andreguetto, Project Manager of IFAT Brasil, will share with the local audience the knowledge and business opportunities offered by the trade fair, scheduled for April 24–26 at São Paulo Expo.
“The institutional partnership with Abes-RS, representing one of the most prominent states in southern Brazil, reinforces IFAT Brasil’s role as a meeting point for the sanitation market in the country, and contributes to sector development and international as well as interregional technology exchange,” highlights Andreguetto.
IFAT Brasil will feature product and solution showcases, systems and services for the sanitation sector, the IFAT Brasil International Congress, and the Innovation Pavilion, organized in partnership with Isle Utilities, one of the world’s leading water sector innovation intelligence agencies. In addition, the IFAT Brasil Innovative Technology Award will recognize the most outstanding new technologies in the industry.
The “Sanitation Dialogues” event is aimed at professionals and managers from sanitation service providers and suppliers in Rio Grande do Sul, environmental service providers, professors and researchers in the environmental sector, as well as undergraduate and graduate students.
About Messe München
As one of the world’s largest trade fair companies, Messe München organizes around 50 trade shows for capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies, setting global standards for innovation, flexibility, and networking. Alongside leading international trade fairs such as bauma, electronica, IFAT, and BAU, Messe München is continuously expanding its portfolio, including digital formats. Headquartered in Munich, it organizes high-quality fairs, conferences, and events, with a strong presence in growth markets such as China, India, Brazil, and Turkey, supported by a network of affiliates and representatives in more than 100 countries.
About Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Founded in 2017 as part of Messe München’s international expansion strategy, Messe Muenchen do Brasil brings the same standards of excellence and innovation established at its German headquarters to the Brazilian market, supporting the development of specialized and internationalized trade fairs.
Press Contact
Mecânica Comunicação Estratégica
Enio Campoi
Mobile: +55 (11) 99981-9950
E-mail: enio@meccanica.com.br
Growth in the Sanitation Sector Brings Positive Results for Atlas Copco, IFAT Brasil Exhibitor
The development of the sanitation market in 2023 was significant for Atlas Copco, as its product line dedicated to wastewater treatment achieved strong results, both in industrial applications and in municipal sewage systems. For 2024 and the following years, the company expects the sanitation market to continue growing, aligned with the universalization goals established by Brazil’s Legal Framework for Sanitation.
According to Mario Tenani, Commercial Director of Atlas Copco’s Oil Free Air division, public concessions have advanced sanitation in Brazil by emphasizing performance, quality, and efficiency, which demand cutting-edge technology, innovation, and reliability. “For a company working with advanced technology, this vision is very important,” he notes. As a result, the company has invested in localizing technologies, such as the ZS5 VSD screw blower, which efficiently serves small and medium-sized wastewater treatment plants.
For 2024, Tenani highlights plans to localize a new screw blower technology in Brazil—the ZS4L model, designed for low-pressure applications, offering higher energy efficiency and lower CO₂ emissions. “We continue to invest in the Brazilian market, localizing high-tech equipment that provides benefits such as energy efficiency, variable speed (VSD), affordability, and technical support, ensuring a rapid return on investment,” he explains.
Tenani also emphasizes the importance of events focused on the sanitation sector in Brazil. For IFAT Brasil, scheduled for April 24–26, 2024, by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, Atlas Copco decided to participate in the local edition, following its tradition of exhibiting at IFAT in Germany, and recognizing the potential of the Brazilian event. He believes that attending the fair will accelerate the adoption of innovative technologies in the country and facilitate connections with partners across Brazil and Latin America.
“Our expectations for the event are high, as the wastewater treatment market is robust, and there is still much to be done in the country. The challenge of universalizing sanitation services is substantial,” Tenani notes. IFAT Brasil will bring together diverse stakeholders in the sanitation sector, offering a single environment for solutions in water and sewage management, drainage and infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery.
The fair will feature more than 10,000 m² of exhibition space, covering all sanitation segments—water, sewage, drainage, and waste recovery. Over 15 thematic panels are scheduled in the IFAT Brasil International Congress during the three-day event. The program will include major players such as BNDES (National Bank for Economic and Social Development), ANA (National Water and Basic Sanitation Agency), ABREN (Brazilian Association for Energy Recovery of Waste), Isle Utilities, German Water Partnership, Trata Brasil, among other national and international partners addressing sustainable growth and sector development. The fair is organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, at São Paulo Expo, alongside M&T Expo – part of bauma NETWORK, the largest construction and mining equipment trade show in Latin America.
Event Information
IFAT Brasil – International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions
Date: April 24–26, 2024
Location: São Paulo Expo
Website: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About Messe München
One of the world’s largest trade fair companies, Messe München organizes approximately 50 fairs in capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies, setting standards for innovation, flexibility, and networking. Alongside major international fairs such as bauma, electronica, IFAT, and BAU, Messe München continually expands its portfolio, including digital formats. Headquartered in Munich, it hosts high-quality fairs, conferences, and events in key growth markets such as China, India, Brazil, and Turkey, with a network of associated companies and foreign agencies in over 100 countries.
About Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Founded in 2017 as part of its international expansion strategy, Messe Muenchen do Brasil brings German headquarters’ levels of excellence and innovation to the Brazilian market, supporting the development of specialized and internationalized business fairs.
Bianna, IFAT Brasil Exhibitor, Highlights the Importance of Creating a Waste-Derived Fuel Market in Brazil
The waste treatment market in Brazil holds significant promise, as most collected waste is not reused and ends up in sanitary landfills or even open dumps. In Europe, reuse rates exceed 95%, with only around 5% of waste sent to landfills.
According to Carlos Roberto Metzger, from Bianna’s commercial area, the technology for waste treatment already exists in Brazil, but public policies are needed to incentivize reuse. “There is investment in waste collection, but not in treatment. All this waste is harmful to public health and society. Sanitary landfills are strictly controlled, but part of the waste could be redirected for other uses. For us, it is not waste but a resource that can be transformed into a byproduct,” he explains.
Metzger emphasizes the importance of establishing a Refuse-Derived Fuel (RDF) market in Brazil. “If RDF consumption increases, we can process non-recyclable waste, convert it into fuel, and consequently reduce the volume sent to landfills,” he states. “Bianna has technology to sort recyclable materials, produce high-quality RDF, drying systems, and Thermovalue solutions, including our rotary kilns, which provide flexibility in the type of fuel used by conventional industry,” he adds.
RDF is more cost-effective than biomass, priced at less than half the cost of wood chips, while offering up to twice the calorific value of biomass. This makes RDF economically viable and environmentally beneficial. “There is great potential in converting biomass-fired kilns into dual-fuel systems. By incorporating a rotary kiln into a conventional biomass system, kilns gain flexibility to use either biomass or RDF as fuel,” Metzger notes.
Regarding market opportunities, Metzger points out that IFAT Brasil, held from April 24 to 26, 2024, by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, will be essential for sharing technologies and experiences in Brazil’s sanitation sector. “It will be a highly impactful event, as public policies aimed at reducing landfills are growing, and waste treatment is the path to follow in the coming years.” The fair will connect multiple stakeholders in the sanitation sector, offering a single environment for solutions in water and sewage management, drainage and infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery.
IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT network, the world’s largest environmental technology network, and will feature more than 10,000 m² of exhibition space, covering all sanitation segments—water, sewage, drainage, and waste recovery. The program will include over 15 thematic panels in the IFAT Brasil Congress across three days. The schedule will feature major players such as BNDES (National Bank for Economic and Social Development), ANA (National Water and Basic Sanitation Agency), ABREN (Brazilian Association for Energy Recovery of Waste), Isle Utilities, German Water Partnership, Trata Brasil, among other national and international partners, addressing current challenges in sustainable growth and sector development while enhancing professional expertise across the industry. The fair will be held at São Paulo Expo, alongside M&T Expo – part of bauma NETWORK, the largest construction and mining equipment trade show in Latin America.
Event Information
IFAT Brasil – International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions
Date: April 24–26, 2024
Location: São Paulo Expo
Website: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About Messe München
As one of the world’s largest trade fair companies, Messe München organizes around 50 fairs in capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies, setting new standards in innovation, flexibility, and networking. Alongside major international fairs such as bauma, electronica, IFAT, and BAU, Messe München continually expands its portfolio, including digital formats. Headquartered in Munich, it hosts high-quality fairs, conferences, and events in key growth markets including China, India, Brazil, and Turkey, with a network of associated companies and foreign agencies in over 100 countries.
About Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Founded in 2017 as part of its international expansion strategy, Messe Muenchen do Brasil brings the German headquarters’ excellence and innovation to the Brazilian market, supporting the development of specialized and internationalized business fairs.
Innovation Pavilion at IFAT Brasil to Showcase Advanced Technological Solutions for Improving Sanitation in Brazil
Event takes place from April 24 to 26, 2024, at São Paulo Expo
Innovation has been pivotal for the development of the sanitation sector in Brazil and globally, addressing growing demands for treated water, efficient sewage management, and environmental sustainability. To present the main trends and technological advancements in the field, IFAT Brasil, the country’s international sanitation fair, will feature the Innovation Pavilion, in partnership with ISLE Utilities, one of the world’s leading intelligence agencies in water sector innovation.
“Innovation plays a crucial role in the sanitation market, enabling improvements in operational efficiency, quality, sustainability, and resilience at lower costs. It is essential for advancing treated water and sewage quality, reducing water losses, enabling more advanced monitoring and control of sanitation networks, lowering water pollution, improving waste management, supporting the development of systems adapted to climate change, enhancing consumer experience, and ensuring that sanitation companies comply with current regulations,” says Victor Arroyo, Director for Portugal, Spain, and Latin America at ISLE Utilities.
The Innovation Pavilion will be the epicenter of the latest discoveries and technological advances in the sector. From April 24 to 26, 2024, at São Paulo Expo, visitors will have the opportunity to attend multiple panels where cutting-edge technology companies will demonstrate their studies and most innovative solutions. Leading companies in the water and sanitation sector will also share success stories, offering valuable lessons learned.
“The Innovation Pavilion will be a dynamic environment for exchange and learning, serving as a convergence point for professionals, exhibitors, and enthusiasts, immersing them in the forefront of technological innovation in Brazilian sanitation,” Arroyo adds. The event will also feature the Technology Approval Group (TAG) methodology through a workshop, gathering experts to discuss and evaluate technological solutions addressing common sector challenges.
A highlight of the event will be the IFAT Brasil Innovative Technology Award, which will recognize the most impactful technologies following an evaluation by a jury of renowned professionals, ensuring the selection of truly transformative solutions for Brazil’s sanitation landscape.
Current global trends showcased in various markets include advanced treatment technologies, the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart sensors, intelligent distribution networks, decentralized treatment, renewable energy and energy efficiency, water reuse, innovative business models, geographic information systems (GIS), wastewater treatment for resource recovery, digitalization and automation, and artificial intelligence for decision-making. “These trends reflect the sanitation sector’s growing commitment to addressing global challenges such as water scarcity, pollution, and climate change, while delivering quality services to communities,” explains Arroyo.
In Brazil, these trends can be implemented through national or international companies operating locally. ISLE recently launched a global call for innovative technologies capable of serving the Brazilian market, contributing to its Brazil Technology Portal, which currently lists 90 technologies. Sixty-one submissions were received, including: biofiltration; membrane systems; membrane bioreactors (MBR); constructed wetlands; decentralized systems; monitoring and remote sensing technologies; advanced modeling and management software; resource recovery; and nature-based solutions.
“Considering Brazil’s geographical, climatic, and population diversity, it is important that solutions are adapted to local needs. Adopting these technologies can not only improve access to basic sanitation but also provide environmental and economic benefits for the country,” Arroyo notes.
IFAT Brasil is organized and promoted by Messe Muenchen do Brasil and aims to connect various market stakeholders, providing a single environment for solutions in water and sewage management, drainage and sector infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery, while fostering discussions on key sector challenges.
The content program will include more than 15 thematic panels, with international and local partnerships to strengthen representation of the main topics influencing public and private management decisions, demonstrating real sector experiences.
Learn more about the event: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
Learn more about ISLE Utilities: http://www.islebrasil.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/93195572/admin/feed/posts/
About Messe München
As one of the world’s largest trade fair companies, Messe München organizes around 50 fairs in capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies, setting new standards for innovation, flexibility, and networking. Alongside major international fairs such as bauma, electronica, IFAT, and BAU, Messe München continually expands its portfolio, including digital formats. Headquartered in Munich, it hosts high-quality fairs, conferences, and events in key growth markets including China, India, Brazil, and Turkey, with a network of associated companies and foreign agencies in over 100 countries.
About Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Founded in 2017 as part of its international expansion strategy, Messe Muenchen do Brasil brings the German headquarters’ excellence and innovation to the national market, supporting the development of specialized and internationalized business fairs.
Brazilian Cities Can Improve Wastewater Treatment Efficiency with Chemical Solutions and Professional Training
The Legal Framework for Sanitation, enacted in July 2020, has brought visibility to the sanitation sector, highlighting the importance of efficient water, sewage, and waste management for the country’s social and economic development, environmental protection, and climate change mitigation.
According to Narana Costa, Head of Technical Support at Matryx, this visibility has encouraged new investments in the sector and the implementation of innovative solutions to achieve universal sanitation coverage in Brazil. “Brazil is a continental country with diverse demands and challenges. Investments are being allocated to serve society, but we are also seeing contributions from industry, which is a major water consumer,” she notes. Narana adds that the Legal Framework has enabled regulatory advances, as the country has multiple municipal and state regulatory agencies, enhancing legal certainty.
All Brazilian regions are investing in sanitation, with the North and Northeast standing out, according to Narana. Specifically in wastewater, collection has been growing, and some cities already show good results in this segment. However, overall treatment efficiency remains low nationwide, as treatment plants were originally designed for certain volumes of wastewater, while demand has increased. For instance, during high season in some cities, flow peaks can double or even triple the volume collected for treatment.
“This demonstrates the importance of having technology to increase efficiency and meet required standards. Chemical solutions to improve sludge sedimentation, for example, help prevent carryover and loss of efficiency. It is essential to monitor the needs of each municipality and region, taking advantage of opportunities through product development and technology investment,” explains Narana. “Wastewater treatment can be unpredictable, as theoretical solutions do not always work in practice. Therefore, combining infrastructure, effective chemical products, and well-trained operational teams is key.”
Narana identifies awareness and training as the main challenges for the sector. Awareness engages society at large, while training equips technical teams to apply products correctly and understand the broader impact of their work.
Matryx offers innovative solutions in flocculants, antifoams, and organic coagulants, and invests in product development alongside clients, performing tests directly at treatment facilities across the country. The company will participate in IFAT Brasil, the country’s international sanitation fair, connecting key industry stakeholders from April 24 to 26, 2024, and providing a unified environment for solutions in water and sewage management, drainage, sector infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery.
“Sanitation is a sector full of opportunities, development, and growth. Much remains to be done to achieve universal access. Events of this magnitude provide the chance to discuss issues, connect people with a shared purpose, and generate meaningful results for both the population and industry,” highlights Narana.
IFAT Brasil will feature over 10,000 m² of exhibition space, covering all sanitation segments—water, sewage, drainage, and waste recovery—including the Innovation Pavilion, in partnership with ISLE Utilities and other initiatives to be announced. The content program includes more than 15 thematic panels, with participation from major national and international players such as ISLE Utilities and German Water Partnership, discussing current sector challenges and providing knowledge to professionals to meet sustainable development goals.
The fair is organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil at São Paulo Expo, in conjunction with M&T Expo – part of the bauma NETWORK, Latin America’s leading construction and mining machinery exhibition.
Event Information
IFAT Brasil – International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions
Dates: April 24–26, 2024
Location: São Paulo Expo
Website: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About Messe München
As one of the world’s largest trade fair companies, Messe München organizes around 50 fairs in capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies, setting new standards for innovation, flexibility, and networking. Alongside major international fairs such as bauma, electronica, IFAT, and BAU, Messe München continuously expands its portfolio, including digital formats. Headquartered in Munich, it hosts high-quality fairs, conferences, and events in key growth markets including China, India, Brazil, and Turkey, with a network of associated companies and foreign agencies in over 100 countries.
About Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Founded in 2017 as part of its international expansion strategy, Messe Muenchen do Brasil brings the German headquarters’ excellence and innovation to the national market, supporting the development of specialized and internationalized business fairs.
Sanitation Investments Drive Environmental Analysis Services and Seawater Desalination Treatment in Brazil
The sanitation market in Brazil has experienced significant growth following the enactment of the Legal Framework for Sanitation in July 2020 and the wider adoption of sustainability concepts. Investments from both the public and private sectors have increased, alongside stricter oversight from state regulatory agencies.
“After the Legal Framework, funding for water treatment has risen, driving new business opportunities. Requests for our customized environmental analysis services—used to consolidate environmental licenses, monitor potable water networks, facilitate the purchase and sale of company assets, and support industrial operations—have grown sustainably, leading us to open a new unit in São Paulo to serve regional industries and acquire a specialized service company,” states Luiz Boebel, Sampling Manager at Acquaplant.
In the case of Triiio Company, an engineering, project, and water treatment equipment manufacturer within the Acquaplant group, the highlight is reverse osmosis water treatment technologies. Nearly 20 units have been installed this year, five of them for seawater desalination. The regions investing the most in these systems are the North, Northeast, and Center-West, areas experiencing greater water scarcity. “Even in the South, where water is more abundant, industries require high-quality water for manufacturing processes, which demands specific treatment investments,” Boebel explains.
Triiio Company also provides de-ferretization systems to remove minerals such as calcium and magnesium. “We serve tertiary markets for specialized waters, working robustly to remove materials and emerging contaminants, such as pharmaceutical residues and agricultural chemicals, purifying water down to nanoparticles,” Boebel adds.
From a sustainability perspective, Acquaplant has invested in technology such as robotic systems, which operate continuously with efficiency and precision. The laboratory has eliminated paper use by integrating systems, enhancing data traceability and accessibility.
Acquaplant and Triiio Company will participate in IFAT Brasil, connecting key sanitation stakeholders from April 24 to 26, 2024, providing a unified environment for solutions in water and sewage management, drainage, sector infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery. “Our goal is to network, raise brand awareness, and exchange experiences with visitors and other exhibitors, driving technological development and product innovation, and supporting the growth of sanitation, ESG, and sustainability in Brazil,” Boebel highlights.
IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT network, the world’s largest environmental technology network. The fair will feature over 10,000 m² of exhibition space, covering all sanitation segments—water, sewage, drainage, and waste recovery. Its content program includes more than 15 thematic panels in the IFAT Brasil Congress over the three-day event. The program will host leading players such as BNDES (Brazilian Development Bank), ANA (National Water and Sanitation Agency), ABREN (Brazilian Association of Energy Recovery from Waste), ISLE Utilities, German Water Partnership, and other national and international partners aiming to respond to current growth and sustainable development demands, enhancing quality and specialized knowledge for professionals across the industry.
The event will be organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil at São Paulo Expo, in conjunction with M&T Expo – part of the bauma NETWORK, Latin America’s leading construction and mining machinery fair.
Event Information
IFAT Brasil – International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions
Dates: April 24–26, 2024
Location: São Paulo Expo
Website: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About Messe München
As one of the world’s largest trade fair companies, Messe München organizes around 50 fairs in capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies, setting new standards for innovation, flexibility, and networking. Alongside major international fairs such as bauma, electronica, IFAT, and BAU, Messe München continuously expands its portfolio, including digital formats. Headquartered in Munich, it hosts high-quality fairs, conferences, and events in key growth markets including China, India, Brazil, and Turkey, with a network of associated companies and foreign agencies in over 100 countries.
About Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Founded in 2017 as part of its international expansion strategy, Messe Muenchen do Brasil brings the German headquarters’ excellence and innovation to the national market, supporting the development of specialized and internationalized business fairs.
Legal Framework for Sanitation Drives Demand for Sewer Infrastructure Projects
Over the past decade, sanitation has gained prominence in terms of investments and public policies, aiming to establish a sustainable, long-term path to provide comprehensive and efficient water and sewage infrastructure. This focus led to the development and enactment of the Legal Framework for Sanitation, which sets targets for universal access to potable water and sewage collection and treatment.
“In addition to growth potential, we have observed a shift in investment responsibility from the public to the private sector, including sanitation companies, utilities, and developers who are implementing new urban areas with water and sewage networks, often with their own treatment systems. This indicates that development pathways are opening, but effective management is required to turn planning into action,” evaluates Thiago Vendemiatti, Commercial Director at Improv Equipamentos.
Regarding the Legal Framework, Vendemiatti highlights that the target of achieving 90% sewage collection and treatment by 2033 is stimulating a larger number of sanitation infrastructure projects across the country. “This latent demand has significant growth potential. We believe it will far exceed the current number of projects,” he explains.
In this context, Improv Equipamentos offers an inline sewage pumping system, known as the Sewage Booster, designed for municipalities and residential and commercial developments. It can fully replace conventional sewage pumping stations. The system is compact, robust, environmentally friendly, occupies less space, emits no unpleasant odors to nearby areas, and features simplified maintenance and operation. The company also provides stainless steel repair clamps, hydraulic efficiency measurement systems for pumps using thermodynamic methods, and storage systems with bolted vitrified reservoirs.
The latest innovations and technologies from Improv Equipamentos will be showcased at IFAT Brasil, connecting key stakeholders in the sanitation sector from April 24 to 26, 2024, and providing a single platform for solutions in water and sewage management, drainage, sector infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery. “We hope IFAT Brasil will maintain the same standards as IFAT Germany, a consolidated and highly anticipated event in the industry, adding value and supporting business development,” emphasizes Vendemiatti.
IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT network, the world’s largest environmental technology network, and will feature over 10,000 m² of exhibition space, covering all sanitation segments—water, sewage, drainage, and waste recovery. The content program includes more than 15 thematic panels. The event will be promoted by Messe Muenchen do Brasil at São Paulo Expo, in conjunction with M&T Expo, the largest construction and mining machinery fair in Latin America.
Event Information
IFAT Brasil – International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions
Dates: April 24–26, 2024
Location: São Paulo Expo
Website: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About Messe Muenchen
One of the world’s largest trade fair companies, Messe München organizes approximately 50 fairs in capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies, setting new standards in innovation, flexibility, and networking. Alongside major international fairs such as bauma, electronica, iFAT, and BAU, Messe München continuously expands its portfolio, including digital formats. Headquartered in Munich, it hosts high-quality fairs, conferences, and events in key growth markets including China, India, Brazil, and Turkey, with a network of associated companies and foreign agencies in over 100 countries.
About Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Founded in 2017 as part of its international expansion strategy, Messe Muenchen do Brasil brings the excellence and innovation standards of the German headquarters to the national market, supporting the development of specialized and internationalized business fairs.
Brazil Boasts Innovative Technologies in Sanitation
Brazil is one of the most promising countries in Latin America for sanitation, following the enactment of the Legal Framework for Sanitation in July 2020. Private and foreign investors see opportunities to apply resources to address current gaps in waste management, sewage collection and treatment, drainage in impermeable areas, and water treatment and supply. A survey by IFAT Brasil, based on data from public agencies and private companies, indicates that the sector could attract up to BRL 580 billion by 2033.
According to Pedro Amaral, sludge drying systems manager at B&F Dias, investing in sanitation is an investment in public health. “For every dollar invested in sanitation, there is a savings of four dollars in public health,” he estimates. Amaral highlights that the sector has become even more attractive for public, private, national, and foreign capital since the Legal Framework was introduced.
“The agribusiness, construction, and sanitation sectors form the country’s development tripod,” emphasizes Carlos Lucchini, water treatment equipment and systems manager at B&F Dias. He notes that Brazil’s potential in the sector is enormous, as there are technologies that have not yet been widely implemented. “We can take a step further and modernize a sewage treatment plant, for example, adding value so it can also function as a potential energy resource factory, providing raw materials for other sectors of the economy.”
In this context, B&F Dias is investing in new technologies to meet Brazil’s sanitation market demands, which will be showcased at IFAT Brasil from April 24 to 26, 2024, connecting key stakeholders and providing a single platform for solutions in water and sewage management, drainage and infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery.
The acquisition of Fluxo Sistemas by B&F Dias has expanded its portfolio with innovative solutions for water and effluent treatment. The company has also increased its production and administrative facilities and is completing a membrane regeneration building while developing a spiral ultrafiltration membrane for water treatment and reuse. Additionally, it operates a model sewage treatment plant (ETE) and an in-house testing laboratory.
One of B&F Dias’ innovative technologies is solar sludge drying, aligned with ESG principles (Environmental, Social, and Corporate Governance), promoting a genuine circular economy. The technology extracts water from sludge using solar energy, converting it into a residue that can be used as an energy resource or as raw material in agriculture (fertilizer) and construction (co-processing in cement manufacturing). “The results are proven, as this technology has already been applied internationally,” states Amaral.
Besides environmental benefits, such as reduced greenhouse gas emissions and decreased landfill disposal, operators also gain increased profitability, lower transport costs for residues, reduced cost per ton of residue, and contract predictability. For landfill managers, this dewatered sludge becomes a reusable raw material, which can even be used for landfill covering and slope containment.
Lucchini points out that many water treatment plants (ETAs) in Brazil are still built conventionally. However, membrane-based technologies offer higher efficiency and water quality. “Only an ETA with membrane technology can meet new market demands and evolving regulations,” he explains.
Due to a severe drought in Rio Grande do Sul earlier this year, local companies and industries turned to B&F Dias for water and effluent reuse solutions to maintain operations. Franco Losada Olevak, technical-commercial manager of mobile units at B&F Dias, notes that the water quality was excellent. “Existing technologies, such as ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis, deliver water quality exceeding potable standards. They are already widely applied in water-scarce countries such as Egypt and Israel,” he says. He adds that other technologies, such as ultraviolet pathogen elimination and ozone treatment at ETE outlets, could further transform the national market.
B&F Dias also offers mobile water treatment units for lease to companies or municipalities seeking high-purity water. These plug-and-play systems feature online monitoring to track water quality and optimize equipment performance. Easy installation ensures minimal disruption to production processes.
IFAT Brasil will feature more than 10,000 m² of exhibition space, covering all sanitation segments—water, sewage, drainage, and waste recovery. Over 15 thematic panels are planned, with insights into financial intelligence, ESG projects, engineering plans, carbon storage, smart money, and investment funds. The event will take place at São Paulo Expo, in conjunction with M&T Expo, the largest construction and mining machinery fair in Latin America, and is promoted by Messe Muenchen do Brasil.
IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT network, the world’s largest environmental technology network.
Event Information
IFAT Brasil – International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions
Dates: April 24–26, 2024
Location: São Paulo Expo
Website: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About Messe Muenchen
One of the world’s largest trade fair companies, Messe München organizes around 50 fairs in capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies, setting new standards in innovation, flexibility, and networking. Alongside international events such as bauma, electronica, iFAT, and BAU, Messe München constantly expands its portfolio, including digital formats. Based in Munich, it hosts high-quality fairs, conferences, and events in major growth markets including China, India, Brazil, and Turkey, with a network of associated companies and foreign agencies in over 100 countries.
About Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Founded in 2017 as part of an international expansion strategy, Messe Muenchen do Brasil brings the excellence and innovation standards of the German headquarters to the national market, supporting the development of specialized and internationalized business fairs.
De acordo com Pedro Amaral, gestor de sistemas de secagem de lodo da B&F Dias, investir em saneamento é cuida da saúde pública. “Para cada dólar investido em saneamento há uma economia de quatro dólares na saúde pública”, calcula. Para ele, após o Marco Legal, o setor ficou ainda mais atrativo para o capital público, privado, nacional e/ou estrangeiro.
“O agronegócio, a construção civil e o saneamento são o tripé do desenvolvimento do país”, pontua Carlos Lucchini, gerente de equipamentos e sistemas para tratamento de águas da B&F Dias, que acrescenta que o potencial brasileiro no setor é enorme, pois existem tecnologias que ainda não estão sendo aplicadas. “Podemos dar um passo além e modernizar uma estação de tratamento de esgoto, por exemplo, agregando valor pra que se transforme também em uma possível fábrica de recursos energéticos para fornecer matérias-primas e materiais para outros setores da economia”.
Nesse sentido, a B&F Dias está investindo em novas tecnologias para atender o mercado de saneamento no país, que poderão ser vistas durante a IFAT Brasil, que irá conectar, entre os dias 24 e 26 de abril de 2024, os diversos stakeholders da área de saneamento, proporcionando em um único ambiente todas as soluções para gestão de água e de esgoto, drenagem e infraestrutura para o setor, gestão de resíduos e soluções de recuperação energética.
A aquisição da Fluxo Sistemas pela B&F Dias acrescentou ao portfólio soluções inovadoras para tratamento de água e de efluentes. Ainda realizou a ampliação de sua área produtiva e administrativa. A companhia está finalizando um prédio de regeneração de membranas e desenvolvendo uma membrana de ultrafiltração espiral para o tratamento de água e reuso, além de contar com uma estação de tratamento de esgoto (ETE) modelo e um laboratório de testes interno.
Uma tecnologia inovadora da B&F Dias é a secagem solar de lodo, que está alinhada aos principais conceitos do ESG (Governança Ambiental, Social e Corporativa), ao promover de fato a economia circular. A solução extrai a água e processa o lodo, transformando em rejeito, por meio do uso da energia solar. Esse rejeito pode ser usado como um recurso energético ou como matéria-prima no agro (adubo) e na construção civil (coprocessamento na indústria do cimento). “Os resultados são comprovados, pois essa tecnologia já tem sido utilizada fora do país”, afirma Amaral.
Além dos benefícios para o meio ambiente, com menor emissão de gases de efeito estufa e diminuição do descarte de resíduos aos aterros sanitários, os operadores também podem obter um aumento da rentabilidade, redução de custos com transporte dos rejeitos, diminuição dos custos por tonelada de rejeito e previsibilidade no contrato. Para os gestores do aterro sanitário, esse rejeito vindo do lodo sem água torna-se uma matéria-prima que pode, inclusive, ser reutilizada para fazer a cobertura do aterro e a contenção de tipos de taludes.
Lucchini lembra que no Brasil ainda se constrói estações de tratamento de água (ETAs) de forma convencional. Mas, que existem tecnologias, como a de membranas, que possuem uma qualidade e produção de água mais eficiente, maior qualidade de tratamento. “Somente uma ETA com tecnologia de membrana vai atender as novas demandas de mercado e novas legislações”, explica.
Devido à forte estiagem que o Rio Grande do Sul atravessou no início deste ano, empresas e indústrias gaúchas recorreram às soluções da B&F Dias para reuso de água e de efluentes para manterem suas operações. Franco Losada Olevak, gerente técnico comercial de unidades móveis da B&F Dias, destaca que a água utilizada era de excelente qualidade. “As tecnologias existentes, como ultrafiltração e osmose, entregam uma qualidade com patamar superior exigida para uma água potável. E, elas já são aplicadas amplamente em países que sofrem com a escassez do recurso, como o Egito e Israel”, explica. A seu ver, outras tecnologias também podem revolucionar o mercado nacional, como a aplicação de ultravioleta para eliminar patógenos na água, e o uso de ozônio na saída das ETEs para garantir que a qualidade da água a ser despejada em rios.
A B&F Dias conta também com unidades móveis para tratamento de água que são locadas pelas empresas ou por municípios que buscam um alto grau de pureza de água. Com um sistema Plug and Play, são dotadas de um sistema de monitoramento online para verificar a qualidade da água produzida e para realizar ajustes na performance dos equipamentos. Por serem de fácil instalação, evitam paradas do processo produtivo.
A IFAT Brasil contará com mais de 10 mil m² de exposição, abrangendo todos os segmentos do saneamento – água, esgoto, drenagem, e recuperação de resíduos. Na área de conteúdo, estão sendo programados mais de 15 painéis temáticos. A feira será promovida pela Messe Muenchen do Brasil, no São Paulo Expo, em conjunto com a M&T Expo, maior feira de máquinas e equipamentos para construção e mineração da América Latina.
A IFAT Brasil integra a rede IFAT, maior rede de tecnologias ambientais do mundo.
Serviço
IFAT Brasil - Feira Internacional para Água, Esgoto, Drenagem e Soluções em Recuperação de Resíduos
Data: 24 a 26 de abril de 2024
Local: São Paulo Expo
Site: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
Sobre a Messe Muenchen
Como uma das maiores empresas de feiras do mundo, com cerca de 50 feiras de bens de capital, bens de consumo e novas tecnologias, a Messe München estabelece novos padrões para inovação, flexibilidade e networking. Juntamente com as principais feiras internacionais, como bauma, electronica, iFAT e BAU, a Messe München está constantemente expandindo seu portfólio, adicionando, por exemplo, formatos digitais. Em sua sede em Munique, realiza feiras, conferências e eventos de alta qualidade. Atua em todos os importantes mercados em crescimento, como a China, Índia, Brasil e Turquia. Com sua rede de empresas associadas e agências estrangeiras, está presente em mais de 100 países.
Sobre a Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Como parte da estratégia de expansão internacional, em 2017 foi fundada a subsidiária Messe Muenchen do Brasil com o propósito de trazer para o mercado nacional os níveis de excelência e inovação estabelecidos na sede da Alemanha e apoiar o desenvolvimento de feiras de negócios em uma direção especializada e internacionalizada.
A Promising Future for Sanitation in Brazil
By Renan Utri Andreguetto, Project Manager IFAT Brasil
The Legal Framework for Sanitation, enacted in 2020, aims to achieve universal access to drinking water and sewage collection and treatment by 2033. To meet these goals, the law introduced measures that strengthen legal security for operators and investors, advancing areas such as regulation and well-structured contracts, while creating financial instruments to stimulate investment in the sector.
As a result, between 2020 and 2022, foreign investments in sanitation nearly tripled, reaching BRL 90 billion, compared to almost BRL 35 billion in the period from 1992 to 2020. Attracting both national and international private investment can elevate the sector’s resources, addressing current demands for improved services to the population.
A survey conducted by IFAT Brasil, based on data from public and private entities, indicates that by 2033 the sector has the potential to attract BRL 580 billion in resources. Among the areas expected to receive the most investment are solid waste management and energy recovery solutions, with around BRL 227 billion, followed by drainage and sanitation infrastructure with BRL 178 billion, sewage management with BRL 108 billion, and water management with nearly BRL 67 billion.
The investment distribution reflects the country’s needs. Currently, solid waste management remains inadequate in many cities and states, particularly due to the presence of open dumps, which pose serious environmental risks, including air and water pollution and public health hazards, serving as vectors of disease in both children and adults.
Another critical point is that Brazil has a low percentage of treated waste, with rates near zero in the North and Northeast, below 10% in the Center-West and Southeast, and under 30% in the South. Consequently, landfills and dumps receive waste that could be recycled, transforming it into materials and raw inputs for various industries or generating energy. This approach would promote the circular economy, adding economic, social, and environmental value for communities, municipalities, operators, industries, waste-picker cooperatives, and society at large.
Drainage is also an urgent issue. The IFAT Brasil study shows a low proportion of impermeable areas with drainage technologies—less than 50% in the South, 35% in the Southeast and Center-West, and 18% in the North and Northeast—explaining the difficulties cities face during summer torrential rains or other climate events, which are becoming more frequent due to global warming.
Regarding sewage management, Brazil collects a higher percentage of sewage than it treats. The Center-West shows close and relatively high rates, around 62% collection and 58% treatment. The North has the lowest rates, 27% for collection and 24% for treatment. The Southeast exhibits the largest gap, with 67% collection and only 48% treatment.
The survey predicts that the Southeast will receive the largest investment, approximately BRL 261 billion, followed by the Northeast (BRL 133 billion), South (BRL 90 billion), North (BRL 52 billion), and Center-West (BRL 44 billion). This distribution reflects population density, which attracts more investors.
The Legal Framework also helps municipal managers find the most appropriate models for their regions. Irregular sanitation service provision is mainly observed in cities with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants, which often face budgetary constraints. Forming municipal blocks or consortiums to contract services collectively could help overcome these resource challenges, allowing better service provision, operational and financial efficiency, improved planning and tariffs, and enhanced engagement with local communities.
Concession auctions have also supported smaller cities. For instance, Orlândia, in São Paulo state, with around 44,000 inhabitants, awarded a consortium BRL 51.5 million to manage sanitation. The total investment for improving water supply and sewage collection and treatment is around BRL 93 million over 35 years.
According to IFAT Brasil, the consortium’s investment is expected to be recovered in eight years, with an average internal rate of return (IRR) of 25%, demonstrating that this model suits the city’s reality. This benefits the local population and municipal financial and social management, while the private operator enhances service quality and earns profitability from operations.
Data from the National Association of Private Water and Sewage Service Concessionaires (ABCON SINDCON) shows that from 2020 to September 2022, 19 sanitation auctions were held nationwide, with BRL 52.9 billion in planned investments and BRL 29.5 billion in funds allocated to states and municipalities, benefiting 23.7 million people.
Brazil’s sanitation sector has a promising future, driven by investor and operator interest and municipal willingness to improve management. However, technology will be fundamental for the country to meet its targets. Solutions in this field can be explored at IFAT Brasil, the country’s international sanitation fair, which will connect stakeholders and showcase comprehensive solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery.
Sanitation: Research Shows Brazil Has Potential to Receive BRL 580 Billion in Investments by 2033
Foreign investments in Brazil’s sanitation sector nearly tripled between 2020 and 2022, reaching BRL 90 billion, compared to almost BRL 35 billion in the period from 1992 to 2000. According to a survey conducted by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, based on data from public agencies and private companies, the sector has the potential to attract BRL 580 billion in resources by 2033.
This positive outlook is a result of the new business model established by the Legal Framework for Sanitation, enacted in July 2020. The framework introduced mechanisms for creating financial instruments and regulated private concession processes, ensuring legal security and profitability for operators, which in turn attracts national and international private investors.
Among the areas expected to receive the largest investments are solid waste management and energy recovery solutions, with approximately BRL 227 billion by 2033, followed by drainage and sanitation infrastructure with BRL 178 billion, sewage management with BRL 108 billion, and water management with nearly BRL 67 billion.
The survey also indicates that the Southeast region will receive the highest investment, approximately BRL 261 billion, followed by the Northeast (BRL 133 billion), the South (BRL 90 billion), the North (BRL 52 billion), and the Center-West (BRL 44 billion).
Messe Muenchen do Brasil is the organizer of IFAT Brasil, an international sanitation trade fair that connects various stakeholders and brings together solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery. The event also fosters discussions on key topics and challenges in the sector.
Scheduled for April 24–26, 2024, at the São Paulo Expo, in parallel with M&T Expo, the largest construction and mining equipment fair in Latin America, IFAT Brasil will cover over 10,000 m² and feature all sanitation segments—water, sewage, drainage, and waste recovery. The fair will also host an Innovation Pavilion, in partnership with ISLE Utilities, one of the world’s leading intelligence agencies in water sector innovation. The pavilion will allow companies with innovative projects to participate in a product incubation process, receiving support for capitalization and market expansion through ISLE Utilities’ platforms. The program will include over 15 thematic panels.
About Messe München
As one of the world’s largest trade fair companies, with around 50 events in capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies, Messe München sets new standards for innovation, flexibility, and networking. Alongside major international fairs such as bauma, electronica, IFAT, and BAU, Messe München continually expands its portfolio, including digital formats. Its Munich headquarters hosts high-quality fairs, conferences, and events, and the company operates in all major growth markets, including China, India, Brazil, and Turkey. With its network of subsidiaries and foreign agencies, Messe München is present in over 100 countries.
About Messe Muenchen do Brasil
Founded in 2017 as part of Messe München’s international expansion strategy, Messe Muenchen do Brasil aims to bring the levels of excellence and innovation established in Germany to the Brazilian market, supporting the development of specialized and internationally oriented trade fairs.
Sanitation: Foreign investments triple, totaling BRL 90 billion in two years
O Marco Legal do Saneamento, promulgado em julho de 2020, gerou resultados importantes nos dois últimos anos. Foram mais de 20 concessões privadas que resultaram em R$ 90 bilhões em investimentos, e 452 municípios e 30 milhões de pessoas foram beneficiadas com 643 obras de infraestrutura, que abriram 6,2 milhões de empregos. As informações do Ministério da integração e do Desenvolvimento Regional mostram os avanços para a universalização do saneamento até 2033, com novas oportunidades que devem acontecer, com a captação de mais de R$ 33 bilhões em debêntures, aprovadas pela pasta.
Nesse cenário positivo, a Messe Muenchen do Brasil promoverá a primeira IFAT Brasil, que irá conectar os diversos stakeholders da área de saneamento, proporcionando em um único ambiente todas as soluções para gestão de água e de esgoto, drenagem e infraestrutura para o setor, gestão de resíduos e soluções de recuperação energética, a fim de contribuir para o desenvolvimento de oportunidades de negócios no setor de tecnologias ambientais e o cumprimento das metas estabelecidas no Marco Legal , desse modo, auxiliando na construção de um futuro melhor para a sociedade brasileira.
Marcada para acontecer entre os dias 23 e 26 de abril de 2024, no São Paulo Expo, em conjunto com a M&T Expo, maior feira de máquinas e equipamentos para construção e mineração da América Latina, a IFAT Brasil oferecerá uma experiência ímpar para os visitantes e para os expositores, ao unir competências e fundos e instrumentos financeiros para atender as demandas de municípios, estados e empresas na área do saneamento.
Serão mais de 10 mil m² de exposição, abrangendo todos os segmentos do saneamento – água, esgoto, drenagem, e recuperação de resíduos -, o que posicionará a IFAT Brasil como um evento de temática completa para agregar o mercado e desenvolver soluções para o setor. A feira contará com um Pavilhão de Inovação, em parceria com a ISLE Utilities, uma das maiores agências de inteligência do mundo em inovação no setor de águas. O espaço possibilitará que empresas com projetos inovadores participem de um processo de incubação de seu produto, com auxílio na capitalização e expansão de comercialização através das plataformas da ISLE Utilities.
Na área de conteúdo, estão sendo programados mais de 15 painéis temáticos. Para isso, serão estabelecidas parcerias internacionais e locais para fortalecer a representação dos principais assuntos que envolvem a operação e a tomada de decisão dos gestores públicos e privados, demonstrando experiências reais do setor.
A IFAT Brasil integra a rede IFAT, que possui mais de 50 anos de experiência em garantir a qualidade da experiência para visitantes, sendo a rede líder mundial para feiras de tecnologias ambientais. Com 11 eventos líderes no portfólio, a IFAT worldwide é a maior rede de tecnologia ambiental do mundo, somando mais de 280 mil visitantes de 155 países diferentes, 548 mil m² de exposição e 6670 expositores de mais de 59 nacionalidades.
Saiba mais em https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
Sobre a Messe Muenchen
Como uma das maiores empresas de feiras do mundo, com cerca de 50 feiras de bens de capital, bens de consumo e novas tecnologias, a Messe München estabelece novos padrões para inovação, flexibilidade e networking. Juntamente com as principais feiras internacionais, como bauma, electronica, iFAT e BAU, a Messe München está constantemente expandindo seu portfólio, adicionando, por exemplo, formatos digitais. Em sua sede em Munique, realiza feiras, conferências e eventos de alta qualidade. Atua em todos os importantes mercados em crescimento, como a China, Índia, Brasil e Turquia. Com sua rede de empresas associadas e agências estrangeiras, está presente em mais de 100 países.
Sobre a Messe Muenchen do Brasil
The Legal Framework for Sanitation, enacted in July 2020, has delivered significant results over the past two years. More than 20 private concessions have generated BRL 90 billion in investments, benefiting 452 municipalities and 30 million people through 643 infrastructure projects, which also created 6.2 million jobs. According to the Ministry of Integration and Regional Development, these advances contribute to the universalization of sanitation services by 2033 and open new opportunities, including the issuance of over BRL 33 billion in debentures, approved by the Ministry.
In this positive scenario, Messe Muenchen do Brasil will host the first IFAT Brasil, connecting diverse stakeholders in the sanitation sector. The event will bring together all solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and sector infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery in a single environment, promoting business opportunities in environmental technologies and supporting the achievement of the goals established by the Legal Framework, thus contributing to a better future for Brazilian society.
Scheduled to take place from April 23 to 26, 2024, at the São Paulo Expo, alongside M&T Expo, the largest construction and mining equipment fair in Latin America, IFAT Brasil will offer a unique experience for both visitors and exhibitors by combining expertise with financial instruments to meet the demands of municipalities, states, and companies in the sanitation sector.
The fair will occupy over 10,000 m², covering all segments of sanitation – water, sewage, drainage, and waste recovery – positioning IFAT Brasil as a comprehensive event for the market and a platform to develop sector solutions. The event will feature an Innovation Pavilion, in partnership with ISLE Utilities, one of the world’s leading intelligence agencies in water sector innovation. This space will allow companies with innovative projects to participate in a product incubation process, receiving support for capitalization and market expansion through ISLE Utilities’ platforms.
The content program includes more than 15 thematic panels, with international and local partnerships established to strengthen discussions on key topics related to the operation and decision-making of public and private managers, showcasing real-life sector experiences.
IFAT Brasil is part of the IFAT network, which has over 50 years of experience in ensuring high-quality visitor experiences and is recognized as the global leader for environmental technology fairs. With 11 leading events in its portfolio, IFAT worldwide is the largest environmental technology network globally, attracting over 280,000 visitors from 155 countries, covering 548,000 m² of exhibition space, and hosting 6,670 exhibitors from more than 59 nationalities.
Learn more at: https://ifatbrasil.com.br/
About Messe München
As one of the world’s largest trade fair companies, with approximately 50 events in capital goods, consumer goods, and new technologies, Messe München sets new standards for innovation, flexibility, and networking. Alongside major international fairs such as bauma, electronica, IFAT, and BAU, Messe München continually expands its portfolio, including digital formats. Its Munich headquarters hosts high-quality fairs, conferences, and events, and it operates in all major growth markets, including China, India, Brazil, and Turkey. Through its network of subsidiaries and foreign agencies, Messe München is present in over 100 countries.
About Messe Muenchen do Brasil
As part of its international expansion strategy, Messe Muenchen do Brasil was founded in 2017 to bring the levels of excellence and innovation established in Germany to the Brazilian market and support the development of business fairs with a specialized and international approach.
Sanitation: Study shows Brazil has the potential to attract BRL 580 billion in investments by 2033
Foreign investments in Brazil’s sanitation sector nearly tripled between 2020 and 2022, reaching BRL 90 billion, compared to the period from 1992 to 2000, when investments totaled around BRL 35 billion. According to a survey conducted by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, based on data from public agencies and private companies, the sector has the potential to attract BRL 580 billion in resources by 2033.
This positive outlook results from the new business model established by the Legal Framework for Sanitation, enacted in July 2020, which facilitated the creation of financial instruments and regulated private concession processes—key elements to ensure legal security and profitability for operators, attracting both national and international private investors.
Among the sanitation areas expected to receive the largest share of resources are solid waste management and energy recovery solutions, with approximately BRL 227 billion by 2033, followed by drainage and sanitation infrastructure with BRL 178 billion, sewage management with BRL 108 billion, and water management with nearly BRL 67 billion.
The study also forecasts that the Southeast region will receive the largest investment, approximately BRL 261 billion, followed by the Northeast (BRL 133 billion), the South (BRL 90 billion), the North (BRL 52 billion), and the Central-West (BRL 44 billion).
Messe Muenchen do Brasil is the organizer of IFAT Brasil, the country’s international sanitation fair, which connects various stakeholders, offering a single platform for solutions in water and sewage management, drainage and infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery, while promoting discussions on the sector’s key themes and challenges.
Scheduled to take place from April 24 to 26, 2024, at São Paulo Expo, alongside M&T Expo, Latin America’s largest construction and mining machinery fair, IFAT Brasil will feature over 10,000 m² of exhibition space, covering all sanitation segments—water, sewage, drainage, and waste recovery. The fair will also include an Innovation Pavilion, in partnership with ISLE Utilities, one of the world’s leading intelligence agencies for water sector innovation. This space will enable companies with innovative projects to participate in product incubation, receiving support for capitalization and market expansion through ISLE Utilities’ platforms.
On the content side, the fair will host more than 15 thematic panels, addressing the most relevant issues and trends in the sector.
Essa perspectiva positiva é resultado do novo modelo de negócios na área, definido pelo Marco Legal do Saneamento, promulgado em julho de 2020, que trouxe facilidades para criação de instrumentos financeiros, processos de concessões privadas regulamentados, que são importantes para garantir segurança jurídica, e lucratividade para as operadores, atraindo investidores privados nacionais e internacionais.
Entre as áreas do saneamento que devem receber mais recursos estão a gestão de resíduos sólidos e soluções em recuperação energética, com cerca de R$ 227 bilhões até 2033, seguida pela drenagem e infraestrutura de saneamento, com R$ 178 bilhões, pela gestão de esgoto, com R$ 108 bilhões, e gestão de água, com quase R$ 67 bilhões.
O levantamento da Messe Muenchen do Brasil ainda prevê que a região Sudeste contará com o maior montante de investimento de cerca de R$ 261 bilhões. Na sequência estão o Nordeste (R$ 133 bilhões), o Sul (R$ 90 bilhões), o Norte (R$ 52 bilhões) e o Centro-Oeste (R$ 44 bilhões).
A Messe Muenchen do Brasil é promotora da IFAT Brasil, feira internacional de saneamento no país, ao conectar os diversos stakeholder, proporcionando em um único ambiente todas as soluções para gestão de água e esgoto, drenagem e infraestrutura para o setor, gestão de resíduos e soluções de recuperação energética, enquanto promove debates sobre os principais temas e desafios relacionados ao setor.
Marcada para acontecer entre os dias 24 e 26 de abril de 2024, no São Paulo Expo, em conjunto com a M&T Expo, maior feira de máquinas e equipamentos para construção e mineração da América Latina, a IFAT Brasil terá mais de 10 mil m² de exposição, abrangendo todos os segmentos do saneamento – água, esgoto, drenagem, e recuperação de resíduos – e contará com um Pavilhão de Inovação, em parceria com a ISLE Utilities, um das maiores agências de inteligência do mundo em inovação no setor de águas. O espaço possibilitará que empresas com projetos inovadores participem de um processo de incubação de seu produto, com auxílio na capitalização e expansão de comercialização pelas plataformas fornecidas pela ISLE Utilities. Na área de conteúdo, estão sendo programados mais de 15 painéis temáticos.
IFAT Brasil 2024: Sanitation fair has over 60% of water and sewage management spaces already sold
IFAT Brasil, the International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage, and Waste Recovery Solutions, is part of the IFAT network, which has over 50 years of experience and is a global benchmark for environmental technology fairs. The first edition in Brazil aims to connect a wide range of sanitation stakeholders from April 24 to 26, 2024, at São Paulo Expo. Organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the fair will showcase the latest solutions and innovations for water and sewage management, drainage and infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery, providing a unique opportunity for business development that supports the goals of the Legal Framework for Sanitation.
In the water and sewage management segment, IFAT Brasil already has over 60% of its spaces sold, with participation from leading companies in the sector, including Acquaplant, B&F Dias, Gardner Denver, Improv Equipamentos, Kronox, Matryx, Policontrol, Swan, Vibropac, Sigma, Prominent, Atlas Copco, and GKD Latam.
According to Renan Utri Andreguetto, Project Manager of IFAT Brasil, Brazil has advanced technologies for managing this market, which can be applied to improve service provision, particularly sewage treatment, which serves less than 50% of the population in most regions, except the Center-West. “IFAT Brasil’s mission is to map the sector’s demands and opportunities, connecting investors, utilities, operators, and government with technologies that can meet these needs,” he emphasized.
A study by IFAT Brasil, based on data from public agencies and private companies, indicates that the water and sewage management sector has the potential to receive BRL 175 billion in investments by 2033. “These figures demonstrate the promising future of sanitation in Brazil and the appetite of investors and operators to participate in this development, as well as municipalities’ willingness to improve their management,” Andreguetto noted.
IFAT Brasil will feature 10,000 m² of exhibition space and an Innovation Pavilion, in partnership with ISLE Utilities, one of the world’s leading intelligence agencies for water sector innovation. This pavilion will allow companies with innovative projects to participate in product incubation, with support for capitalization and commercialization through ISLE Utilities’ platforms, in partnership with #fuentedeinovacion, an initiative of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and IDB Lab.
On the content side, the fair will host a range of thematic panels over three days, featuring national and international case studies. Topics include financial intelligence—best funds for environmental technologies, high-efficiency social projects, basic engineering plans for sanitation auctions, carbon storage and the carbon cycle within ESG platforms for sanitation projects, smart money initiatives, IPOs, and ESG investment funds, among others.
Sanitation: foreign investments triple, reaching BRL 90 billion in two years
The Legal Framework for Sanitation, enacted in July 2020, has delivered significant results over the past two years. More than 20 private concessions resulted in BRL 90 billion in investments, benefiting 452 municipalities and 30 million people through 643 infrastructure projects, which generated 6.2 million jobs. Data from the Ministry of Integration and Regional Development highlight the advances toward universal sanitation coverage by 2033, with new opportunities expected, including the raising of over BRL 33 billion through debentures approved by the Ministry.
In this positive context, Messe Muenchen do Brasil will host the first IFAT Brasil, connecting various stakeholders in the sanitation sector and providing, in a single environment, all solutions for water and sewage management, drainage and infrastructure, waste management, and energy recovery. The fair aims to foster business opportunities in environmental technologies while supporting the goals established by the Legal Framework, thereby contributing to building a better future for Brazilian society.
Scheduled to take place from April 23 to 26, 2024, at São Paulo Expo, alongside M&T Expo, Latin America’s largest construction and mining machinery fair, IFAT Brasil will offer a unique experience for both visitors and exhibitors, combining expertise, financial instruments, and funding to meet the demands of municipalities, states, and companies in the sanitation sector.
The exhibition will cover over 10,000 m², encompassing all sanitation segments—water, sewage, drainage, and waste recovery—positioning IFAT Brasil as a comprehensive thematic event aimed at uniting the market and developing sector solutions. The fair will feature an Innovation Pavilion, in partnership with ISLE Utilities, one of the world’s leading intelligence agencies in water sector innovation. This space will allow companies with innovative projects to participate in a product incubation process, with support for capitalization and commercialization expansion through ISLE Utilities platforms.
In the content area, more than 15 thematic panels are planned. International and local partnerships will be established to strengthen representation of key topics affecting public and private sector management and decision-making, showcasing real-life experiences from the sanitation sector.
A promising future for sanitation in Brazil
By Renan Utri Andreguetto, Project Manager IFAT Brasil
The Legal Framework for Sanitation, enacted in 2020, aims to universalize access to potable water and sewage collection and treatment by 2033. To achieve these goals, the law established measures to enhance legal certainty for operators and investors, advancing aspects such as regulation and well-structured contracts, and creating financial instruments that encourage investment in the sector.
Between 2020 and 2022, foreign investments in sanitation nearly tripled, reaching BRL 90 billion, compared to almost BRL 35 billion from 1992 to 2020. By attracting both domestic and international private investment, it is possible to increase the current level of resources for sanitation, addressing existing demands for improved service to the population.
A survey conducted by IFAT Brasil, based on data from public agencies and private companies, indicates that by 2033, the sector could receive approximately BRL 580 billion. Among the sanitation areas expected to receive the most funding are solid waste management and energy recovery solutions, with around BRL 227 billion by 2033, followed by drainage and sanitation infrastructure (BRL 178 billion), sewage management (BRL 108 billion), and water management (nearly BRL 67 billion).
The allocation of investments is tied to the country’s needs. Currently, solid waste management remains inadequate in many cities and states, largely due to the existence of uncontrolled landfills, which cause serious environmental problems such as air pollution, soil and water contamination, and public health risks, spreading diseases among children and adults.
Another critical issue is that Brazil has a very low rate of waste treatment, with nearly zero in the North and Northeast, below 10% in the Central-West and Southeast, and less than 30% in the South. As a result, sanitary landfills and uncontrolled dumps receive waste that could be recycled, allowing it to be converted into materials and raw inputs for various sectors or used for energy generation. This would stimulate a circular economy, creating economic, social, and environmental value for communities, municipalities, operators, industries, waste-picker cooperatives, and society as a whole.
Drainage is also an urgent concern. The IFAT Brasil study indicates that only a small percentage of impermeable areas are equipped with drainage technologies—less than 50% in the South, 35% in the Southeast and Central-West, and 18% in the North and Northeast—explaining the difficulties cities face during torrential summer rains or other climatic events, which are becoming more frequent due to global warming.
Regarding sewage management, Brazil collects a higher percentage than it treats. The Central-West region shows nearly equal and relatively high levels of collection (62%) and treatment (58%). The North has the lowest rates, with 27% collection and 24% treatment. The largest gap is in the Southeast, with 67% collection but only 48% treatment.
The survey projects that the Southeast region will receive the largest share of resources, around BRL 261 billion, followed by the Northeast (BRL 133 billion), the South (BRL 90 billion), the North (BRL 52 billion), and the Central-West (BRL 44 billion), reflecting the higher population concentration and the resulting attraction for investors.
The Legal Framework also helps municipal managers identify the most appropriate models for their regions. Currently, irregular sanitation operations are primarily found in cities with fewer than 50,000 inhabitants, which struggle to allocate budgets for sanitation. The possibility of forming municipal blocks or groups to contract services collectively offers a viable solution to overcome these financial limitations, enabling better service delivery, improved operational and financial efficiency, enhanced planning and tariffs, and stronger relationships with local populations.
Concession auctions have also helped smaller cities. For example, Orlândia, in São Paulo state, with approximately 44,000 inhabitants, awarded a consortium BRL 51.5 million to manage the city’s sanitation services. The total investment to improve water treatment and supply, as well as sewage collection and treatment, is projected at BRL 93 million over 35 years.
According to the IFAT Brasil survey, the consortium is expected to recoup its investment within eight years, with an average internal rate of return (IRR) of 25%. These figures show that the model applied in Orlândia suited its local context, benefiting the population and municipal financial and social management. At the same time, the private concessionaire will enhance service quality and achieve profitability from operations.
According to the National Association of Private Concessionaires of Public Water and Sewage Services (ABCON SINDCON), from 2020 until September 2022, 19 sanitation auctions were held in Brazil, with BRL 52.9 billion in planned investments and BRL 29.5 billion in funds allocated to states and municipalities, benefiting 23.7 million people.
Brazilian sanitation has a promising future, driven by investor and operator interest and municipal commitment to improved management. However, technology will be fundamental for the country to achieve its targets. Numerous solutions are available, which will be showcased at IFAT Brasil, the international sanitation fair in Brazil, connecting diverse stakeholders and providing a comprehensive environment for water and sewage management, drainage and infrastructure solutions, waste management, and energy recovery technologies.
Environmental technologies have significant growth potential in Brazil
Environmental technologies have significant growth potential in Brazil, driven by planned investments in the sanitation sector. According to a survey conducted by IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, based on data from public agencies and private companies, the sector could receive approximately BRL 580 billion in funding by 2033.
Renan Utri Andreguetto, Project Manager at Messe Muenchen do Brasil, the organizer of IFAT Brasil, emphasized that environmental technology is increasingly viewed as a critical investment. “Previously, environmental technologies were considered costs, but this perspective has changed, as they provide a range of benefits, including cost reduction, increased productivity and efficiency, reduced material usage, enhanced recycling, and the promotion of circular economy concepts, among others,” the executive explained during a meeting with journalists from Brazil and South America on Wednesday, April 24, following the event’s opening ceremony.
Andreguetto noted that Brazil has the opportunity to implement environmental technologies to improve sewage collection and treatment rates, water treatment and distribution, recycling and proper waste disposal, and drainage infrastructure. He also highlighted the importance of establishing guidelines for payments for environmental services, which will stimulate the recycling market in the country, and the use of environmental technologies to reduce the risks of floods and inundations in cities.
Segundo Renan Utri Andreguetto, gerente de Projetos da Messe Muenchen do Brasil, organizadora da IFAT Brasil, a tecnologia ambiental está sendo vista como um investimento fundamental. “Antes as tecnologias ambientais eram consideradas custos, mas essa visão mudou, pois elas promovem uma série de benefícios, como redução de custos, aumentos de produtividade e eficiência, diminuição do uso de materiais, ampliação da reciclagem e de conceitos da economia circular, entre outros”, explicou o executivo durante um encontro com jornalistas do Brasil e da América do Sul, realizado nesta quarta-feira, dia 24 de abril, após a solenidade de abertura do evento.
Andreguetto ponderou que o Brasil tem a possibilidade de implementar tecnologias ambientais para aumentar os índices de coleta e tratamento de esgoto, de tratamento e distribuição de água potável, de reciclagem e destinação adequada de resíduos e de infraestrutura de drenagem. Reforçou, por exemplo, a importância de se ter diretrizes para os pagamentos de serviços ambientais, o que vai fomentar o mercado de reciclagem no país, e o uso de tecnologias ambientais para diminuir os riscos de enchentes e inundações em cidades.
Sabesp showcases innovation projects in sanitation and virtual reality experiences
A Sabesp mostra aos visitantes da IFAT Brasil, Feira Internacional para Água, Esgoto, Drenagem e Soluções em Recuperação Energética, que foi aberta nesta quarta-feira (24/4), no São Paulo Expo, seus projetos de inovação, que unem novas tecnologias, atreladas aos conceitos ESG, auxiliando no crescimento sustentável da empresa e possibilitando atender de forma mais rápida e eficiente os quase 30 milhões de clientes.
Estão em exposição as principais inovações tecnológicas desenvolvidas ou em desenvolvimento, que visam a manutenção e ampliação dos serviços de captação, tratamento e abastecimento de água, além da coleta e tratamento de esgoto.
Sabesp is presenting its innovation projects to visitors at IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste-to-Energy Solutions, which opened this Wednesday (April 24) at São Paulo Expo. These projects combine new technologies with ESG principles, supporting the company’s sustainable growth and enabling faster and more efficient service to nearly 30 million customers.
The main technological innovations developed or under development are on display, focusing on the maintenance and expansion of water collection, treatment, and supply services, as well as sewage collection and treatment.
At the Sabesp booth, visitors can also experience a unique innovation in sanitation: Virtual Reality with the Integrated Multidiameter Take-Off Collar NTS 355. Using virtual reality goggles, visitors can perform the installation of a “Take-Off Collar” for a residential water connection, fully immersing themselves in a virtual reality environment.
Reverse osmosis technology enhances process efficiency
Speakers at the Reverse Osmosis Panel: Pathways of Permeated Water, held during IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, emphasized that reverse osmosis technology significantly improves operational efficiency in water treatment processes. Fernando de Noronha, for example, uses an LG Chem system that draws seawater and treats it using reverse osmosis membranes.
Luis Henrique Pereira Pinto, CEO and Technical Director of Usinando Negócios, noted that the reverse osmosis unit is the last component to be considered in water treatment. It is essential first to assess the water’s characteristics, identify contaminant agents, and determine the mineral elements in its composition.
According to Anderson José Beber, Technical Consulting Manager at Solenis, the sector recognizes the importance of achieving maximum system performance and longevity. In this context, the use of chemicals can be an ally, but investment is needed in selecting the best product molecules.
Mauro Edson da Silva Junior, Product Specialist at Liter, highlighted the importance of boiler polishing to reduce electrical conductivity. “These procedures aim to increase operational efficiency and productivity, providing high-purity water,” he concluded.
The Netherlands showcases water sector solutions at IFAT Brasil
The Netherlands Water Partnership (NWP) brought strategic partners to IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, which runs until Friday, April 26, at São Paulo Expo, to present solutions developed in the Netherlands’ water sector.
Although Brazil is not a member of the organization, NWP chose to partner with IFAT Brasil because the fair provides an opportunity to promote Dutch technologies and innovations that can be applied locally, such as solutions for flood management.
Joyce Guielen, Event Manager for the Young Expert Programmes, which trains and promotes young multipliers, emphasized that the organization has much to contribute in terms of technology and knowledge. Participation in the Innovation Pavilion is an opportunity to connect interested parties, fostering collaborations and partnerships.
Mesmo o Brasil não sendo membro da organização, a NWP decidiu ser parceiro da IFAT Brasil porque a feira traz uma oportunidade para promover as tecnologias e inovações desenvolvidas na Holanda, uma vez que podem ser aplicadas em território nacional, como aquelas voltadas à contenção de inundações.
Joyce Guielen, Gerente de Eventos do projeto Young Expert Programmes, que capacita e promove jovens multiplicadores, pontua que a organização tem muito a contribuir com tecnologia e conhecimento e a participação no Pavilhão de Inovação é uma oportunidade de conectar pessoas interessadas, levando a colaborações e parcerias.
German companies see investment opportunities in sanitation in Brazil
The 2020 regulatory framework opened the way for new support opportunities for Brazil from German companies, according to studies by Germany Trade & Invest, presented at the Brazil-Germany Sanitation Congress, held during IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, which runs until Friday, April 26, at São Paulo Expo.
Germany has 9,000 treatment plants and more than 5,000 specialized companies in this sector. In other words, there are more German companies than Brazilian cities, highlighting how well-oriented the German market is for exports. German cities have also adopted so-called “sponge city” concepts, protected by flood defense mechanisms, aiming to prevent disasters like the one in 2021 that resulted in 120 deaths.
Meanwhile, Brazilians surpass Germans in two areas: they are more creative and more advanced in digital technology applications. There is strong acceptance of digitalized processes, the use of artificial intelligence, and networking
Public policies are essential to expand the use of renewable energies
Brazil needs to create incentives and public policies to increasingly utilize renewable energy sources, such as biogas and biomethane. “Based on solutions implemented by the European Union, we are establishing our own regulations, recognizing that these are strategic, efficient, and sustainable alternatives,” said Heleno Quevedo, CEO and founder of Energia e Biogás, during the EUCD Panel – European Union Climate Dialogues, Part 2, held at IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, which continues until tomorrow (Friday, April 26) at São Paulo Expo.
In this context, a partnership with the Cooperative of Swine and Poultry Producers of Western Paraná has become a model of efficiency in the application of sustainable energies, generating benefits in sanitation, biological waste treatment, and promoting the production of clean energy and biofertilizers. “These are projects that deserve investment, and today in Brazil, BNDES leads this market, although there are several other financing sources in the country focused on the sector,” stated Flavio Mattos, from WTEEC.
The panel also addressed wind energy. According to Fábio França, Director of Business Development at CHP Brasil, the sector generated 2 GW in 2013, and this year that amount has risen to 30 GW. “The growth has been considerable, but it is important to remember that it is an intermittent energy source, dependent on weather conditions. Therefore, proper control is necessary.”
Nesse sentido, uma parceria com a Cooperativa dos Produtores de Suínos e Aves do Oeste do Paraná tornou-se um modelo de eficiência na aplicação de energias sustentáveis, gerando benefícios na área de saneamento, tratamento biológico de resíduos, e incentivando a produção de energia limpa e de biofertilizantes. “São projetos que merecem investimentos e hoje, no Brasil, o BNDES detém a liderança deste mercado, embora haja diversas outras fontes de financiamento no Brasil, com olhares voltados para o setor”, defende Flavio Mattos, da WTEEC.
O painel também tratou de energia eólica. De acordo com Fábio França, diretor de Desenvolvimento de Negócios da CHP Brasil, o setor gerava, em 2013, 2 GW, e neste ano, esse montante subiu para 30 GW. “A evolução foi considerável, porém é preciso lembrar que é uma energia intermitente, que depende das condições climáticas. Assim, é preciso controle”.
Brazil is reaching maturity in biomethane development
State Deputy Arnaldo Jardim stated that Brazil is reaching maturity in the development of biomethane during the opening of the Abrema-Abiogás Panel – Parliamentary Front for the Green Economy, held at IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, which concludes this Friday, April 26, at São Paulo Expo.
“The country has committed to reducing methane gas emissions, and although Brazil is often seen as a laggard in environmental management, with the energy resources we have, we can achieve a leading position in the green economy,” Jardim emphasized during the panel, organized by the Brazilian Association of Waste and Environment (ABREMA) and the Brazilian Biogas Association (ABIOGÁS).
Of the six facilities structured to supply biomethane, four are already operational in the waste management sector, producing 400,000 cubic meters per day. Milton Pilão, from Orizon, highlighted the importance of valorizing waste, ensuring biomass is reused as much as possible. Diego Nicoletti, from Solvi, stated that biomethane is emerging as the fuel of the future.
“O País assumiu o compromisso de reduzir a emissão do gás metano e, apesar de o Brasil se apresentar como um algoz na gestão ambiental, com a matéria energética que temos, poderemos atingir a vanguarda da economia verde”, destacou Jardim no painel promovido pela Associação Brasileira de Resíduos e Meio Ambiente (ABREMA) e Associação Brasileira do Biogás (ABIOGÁS).
Das seis plantas estruturadas para fornecer biometano, o setor de gestão de resíduos já tem quatro delas garantindo a produção de 400 mil metros cúbicos/dia. Milton Pilão, da Orizon, ressaltou a importância de valorizar o lixo, com a biomassa sendo reutilizada o máximo possível. Para Diego Nicoletti, da Solvi, o biometano configura-se como o combustível do futuro.
Brazil stands out for biomass use initiatives in the cement industry
While the global average of CO₂ emissions in the cement industry is 7%, in Brazil this figure is 2.3%, thanks to various initiatives implemented over the years and the Brazilian energy matrix, assured Daniel Mattos, Leader of Alternative Fuels and Raw Materials at the Brazilian Portland Cement Association (ABCP), during a panel hosted by the association at IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, which concludes this Friday (April 26).
The panel focused on the transformative role of the cement industry in the circular economy of waste. Among the strategies presented, co-processing stands out, which involves the use of industrial, agricultural, or urban waste as a substitute for fossil fuels. “Waste is reintegrated into the production cycle, preserving natural resources, and what is not converted into energy is incorporated into the clinker,” summarized Mattos, emphasizing: “It generates no waste.”
In Brazil, there are 54 integrated cement plants. Mattos highlighted that 43 of them are licensed for co-processing—a technology that has existed since the 1970s, arrived in Brazil in the mid-1990s, and is regulated by Conama Resolution No. 499, revised in 2020.
Latin America is rich in water, but sanitation coverage remains low
Representatives from the Inter-American Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering (AIDIS) from various countries discussed the sanitation and solid waste management challenges in their nations and suggested solutions to achieve more sustainable indicators during IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, which concludes this Friday, April 26, and is organized by Messe Muenchen do Brasil.
Ronald Baldivieso, President of the Bolivian Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering (APIS Bolivia), reported that although the country is part of the three largest aquifer basins in Latin America, it faces an annual water deficit affecting 14% of the urban population and 41% of the rural population. Bolivia also ranks among the countries with the lowest water storage capacity on the continent, facing severe challenges in equitable water distribution across regions.
Basic sanitation in Bolivia is also problematic. In urban areas, only 71% of the population has access to water and sewage services, while in rural areas the coverage is even lower, at just 45%. According to Baldivieso, the country is expected to reach 77% coverage in urban zones and 53% in rural areas by 2025.
Meanwhile, Marcos Alegre Chang, Director of the Solid Waste Technical Division (DIRSA) at APIS Peru, presented an overview of solid waste management in Latin America. According to the 2021 Regional Assessment of Municipal Material and Solid Waste Flows in Latin America (EVAL), approximately 46% of waste is deposited in sanitary landfills.
O presidente da Associação Boliviana de Engenharia Sanitária e Ambiental (APIS) da Bolívia, Ronald Baldivieso, relatou que, embora o país participe das três maiores bacias aquíferas da América Latina, possui um déficit anual de água que afeta 14% da população urbana e 41% da população rural, além de ser um dos países com menor capacidade de armazenamento de água do continente, com graves problemas de distribuição equitativa de água entre as regiões do país.
O saneamento básico da Bolívia também é problemático. Nas áreas urbanas, apenas 71% da população tem acesso a água e esgoto, enquanto na área rural o índice é ainda pior: apenas 45% dos habitantes contam com saneamento básico. Segundo ele, a estimativa é de que o país atinja 77% dos habitantes da zona urbana e 53% da zona rural em 2025.
Já o diretor da divisão técnica de resíduos sólidos (DIRSA) APIS Peru, Marcos Alegre Chang, apresentou um panorama dos resíduos sólidos na América Latina. Segundo dados da Avaliação Regional de Fluxo de Materiais e Resíduos Sólidos Municipais para a América Latina (EVAL) de 2021, cerca de 46% do lixo é depositado em aterros sanitários.
Symposium at IFAT Brasil showcases technology that ensures more accurate production and energy reduction
Máquinas especializadas com tecnologia adequada e práticas inovadoras foram trazidas como soluções ESG no Simpósio Tecnológico VDMA dentro da IFAT Brasil, Feira Internacional para Água, Esgoto, Drenagem e Soluções em Recuperação de Resíduos, que se encerra nesta sexta-feira, 26 de abril. Os palestrantes apontaram que há uma preocupação a respeito do uso de energia e aplicação de água nos processos, uma vez que é preciso respeitar os pontos estabelecidos no Pacto Global da Organização das Nações Unidas.
Rodrigo Castro, da Koerting do Brasil, apresentou as vantagens da tecnologia desenvolvida nos ejetores, com manutenção baixa por não usar peças móveis; alto fornecimento e eficiência de oxigênio; alta taxa de transferência e sem sedimentação e compactação de sólidos, uma vez que não requer agitadores e inserção de ar adicionais.
Specialized machinery with advanced technology and innovative practices were presented as ESG solutions at the VDMA Technology Symposium, held within IFAT Brasil - International Fair for Water, Sewage, Drainage and Waste Recovery Solutions, which concludes this Friday, April 26. Speakers highlighted concerns about energy consumption and water use in processes, stressing the importance of complying with the principles established by the United Nations Global Compact.
Rodrigo Castro, from Koerting do Brasil, presented the advantages of the technology developed in ejectors, which feature low maintenance due to the absence of moving parts; high oxygen supply and efficiency; a high transfer rate; and no sedimentation or compaction of solids, as the system does not require additional agitators or air insertion.
High-resilience pumping was the solution presented by LAM Pumpenfabrik Wangen. According to Gustavo Binotti, Regional Sales Manager, heavy-duty applications require a Cardan shaft set. Furthermore, in the technology applied to pumps with upper seals, the packing is of the cartridge type, which allows for faster maintenance, ensures longer service life, and reduces replacement costs.
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