Claes Seldeby: ‘We have an important role to play in society’
12 May / 2025
To succeed on a wide front, the green transition needs to be cost-effective. This view was voiced by Claes Seldeby, Group CEO of Ahlsell, one of the speakers at Vatten2025. Here are his thoughts about opportunities and challenges in the water and wastewater industry.
The Swedish water and wastewater network is facing its greatest challenge in decades. Due to an ageing infrastructure, extreme weather events and higher sustainability requirements, the industry is poised for a necessary transition.
As a multi-specialist distributor in industry, infrastructure and installation, Ahlsell takes this challenge very seriously.
‘We have taken our water for granted for far too long. Now we must invest, rebuild and think innovatively,’ says Claes.
Ahlsell’s vision is to build a more sustainable society. As a leading distributor in the water and wastewater sector, Ahlsell is committed to raising sustainability throughout the value chain.
‘We are a big company that can make a difference. For us, it is crucial to consider the sustainability perspective in everything we do.’
Sustainability must go hand in hand with cost effectiveness
Major investments are needed in the water and wastewater network throughout Sweden.
‘Overall, our water and wastewater network is underinvested. A large percentage of the water produced disappears through leakages in the systems. Tardy maintenance is much more costly than people realise.’
The challenges are not going to decrease. As climate change progresses there will be periods of heavier rainfall, but also periods of drought.
‘Disruptive weather systems and 100-year rainfall events will occur more frequently, placing entirely new requirements on the design and maintenance of water and wastewater infrastructure.’
Despite increasing sustainability requirements, Claes sees a continuing reluctance to pay for sustainable products.
This poses a challenge for Ahlsell: The company’s stated target is to reduce emissions throughout the entire value chain of products and services by 42 percent from 2022 to 2030.
‘I have no illusions that anyone is willing to pay particularly high prices for sustainable solutions. That’s why products and services have to be cost-effective,’ he says.
‘Sustainable solutions can’t continue to be expensive – they also have to be smarter. After all, the money aspect is foremost in our customers’ minds.’
Long-term approach to sustainability
‘A long-term approach is crucial even though it sometimes means higher initial costs,’ Claes points out.
‘But if it means you get a plant that lasts for twice as long, it’s a sound investment. We need to take a long-term approach to sustainability.’
Claes sees materials as a central issue at an overall level.
‘We need to increase reuse and reduce the environmental impact of the raw materials used.’
Collaboration is crucial
Ahlsell’s vision of building a more sustainable society can’t be achieved without external collaboration. That’s why Ahlsell maintains continuous dialogue with its business partners.
‘Sustainability is one of the key issues we discuss. And sustainability requirements are often imposed during the procurement process.’ Claes stresses that it is important for Ahlsell to understand customer demand.
‘We must understand customers’ needs in order to provide sustainable solutions.’ He believes politicians can help push things in the right direction.
‘I think stricter legislation regarding water and wastewater could drive development forward. But it would have to be at EU level,’ he says.
‘Particularly in the last few months, Europe has had a wake-up call. We have to realise that the water and wastewater network system needs to be robust and sustainable in the long term, especially with the security challenges we face at present.’
Looks forward to meeting others from the industry
Claes will participate in the stage programme at Vatten2025. He looks forward to meeting people from the industry and discussing the challenges the industry is facing.
‘I hope to spread Ahlsell’s perspective on development and increase awareness about the water and wastewater network’s vulnerability and the need for investment.’
He points out that the exhibition is an important forum for raising issues that are often disregarded.
‘We have an important role in society, and these issues are crucial to our future. I also hope this will be an opportunity to arouse new generations’ interest in a career in the water and wastewater industry.’
With its collective expertise and over 250 exhibitors, Vatten2025 is Sweden’s largest meeting place for the water and wastewater sector. We welcome a unique mix of players from across the entire sector: industry, public sector, operation and maintenance. It is an opportunity for employees at all levels to meet, exchange ideas and develop their knowledge about the latest technical and digital innovations.