Danish presence at Vatten2025: ‘Our know-how can solve Swedish problems’
12 May / 2025
There is twice as many pipe leaks in the Swedish water network as in the Danish one.
‘We’re a step ahead in terms of technology and know-how, and can offer effective solutions,’ says Klaus Kattenhöj, head of Water Tech at the Danish Export Association, which is heading a Danish pavilion at Vatten2025.
Many water and wastewater companies will participate in the Danish pavilion at Vatten2025 on 21–23 October. Klaus sees Sweden as a major potential export market, although not all Danish companies have discovered it yet:
‘I often encounter scepticism when I discuss the potential of the Swedish market. My best counterargument is: if your product works in Denmark, it will also work in Sweden!’
Problems early on
EU legislation ensures that in principle, the countries meet the same requirements.
‘Sweden has many large companies, but Denmark has a greater number of water companies. In addition, we have longer experience. This is because due to our smaller size, we faced problems with water shortages and pollution early on.
‘Large parts of Sweden have rocky ground and use surface water, whereas Denmark has clay soil and uses groundwater,’ says Klaus.
He says this has driven innovation forward in water supply, water treatment, sewerage, energy efficiency and sustainability.
Smart solutions reduce leaks
District metered areas (DMA) are a standard solution in Denmark today. Dividing the network into areas facilitates leak detection.
‘It also makes leaks less costly because they are detected and stopped at an earlier stage. This prevents consequential damage and extensive repairs.’
Danish companies have also developed solutions for built-in leak detection, smart water metering and technology for detection in the water supply network, right down to the individual consumer.
‘Whereas estimated water consumption is 180 litres per person in Sweden, it is 100 litres per person in Denmark. The average water loss is 7 percent in Denmark, while in Sweden it is between 15 and 20 percent.
‘If leaks were reduced, Swedes wouldn’t have to shower less than Danes,’ jokes Klaus.
Efficient water treatment methods
Klaus also points out that the approach to wastewater is becoming increasingly circular, for instance with reduced use of chemicals in wastewater wells and microbiological analysis of the water supply.
‘There are many Danish manufacturers who can help reduce the costs of extending wastewater facilities, simply by getting them to work more effectively.’
He mentions new solutions for the fourth stage of water treatment as well as the treatment of isolated parts of a system. Such solutions are not least relevant for the Swedish chemicals and pharmaceuticals industry and paper and pulp industry, where large quantities of wastewater are generated.
‘We also expect Urban Water Retention to be present at Vatten2025 with natural solutions for stormwater retention, water treatment and climate protection.’
Recycling of biogas and biochar
Denmark also offers advanced technology for efficient greenhouse gas reduction at wastewater treatment plants, as Unisense Environment has developed the world’s only sensor system for direct measurement of dissolved N2O in bulk water.
‘Circularity is probably the area where things are happening most at the moment,’ says Klaus.
‘Mineral recycling and bioenergy – recycling biogas and biochar from wastewater treatment plants and processing them into fertiliser – is a huge growth area. Denmark actually has a complete supply chain in this area.’
Looking forward to the exhibition
There was also a Danish pavilion at Vatten2023, an experience that people are keen to repeat, says Klaus.
‘We received lots of interest from Swedish municipalities, which led to several deals.
Danish water companies have long disregarded the Swedish market. This is something we want to change now. We’re really looking forward to visiting Gothenburg this autumn!’
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.