A global gathering of water loss experts
At the Water Loss 2026 Conference, organised by the International Water Association (IWA) in Rio de Janeiro, Veolia teams shared their expertise and saw their commitment recognised. Bringing together leading stakeholders from across the global water sector, the conference provided a valuable opportunity to promote best practice in reducing non-revenue water (NRW) and advancing the sustainable transformation of water services.
Together with colleagues from Veolia Brasil, Aguas Andinas, Interagua Ecuador, Veolia Chile and the Business Support & Performance department at Head Office, Veolia's Engineering & Consulting teams contributed to discussions by showcasing the expertise the Group has developed across more than 70 countries.
Reducing non-revenue water: a strategic priority
Among the highlights of this year's conference was a presentation demonstrating the strategic importance of reducing non-revenue water, not only as a driver of operational performance but also as a key resilience measure in the face of climate change. Veolia's experts emphasised that controlling water losses is essential to safeguarding water resources, particularly in regions facing increasing water scarcity or relying on highly carbon-intensive water production methods.
Award-winning results in Tanzania
The conference also provided an opportunity to celebrate the Engineering & Consulting project delivered by Veolia in partnership with DAWASA in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. Conducted over two and a half years, the project was recognised for its outstanding results, achieving a reduction in non-revenue water of 8,100 m³ per day through measures implemented across 15 District Metered Areas (DMAs), 300 kilometres of transmission mains and nearly 19,000 service connections.
Recognition for Veolia and the water loss community
During the closing gala, Veolia received an IWA WLSG Award in recognition of its commitment to capacity building in water management. The award highlights the collective work carried out with partners and water utilities around the world to develop sustainable solutions and deliver lasting improvements in network performance.
The event also paid tribute to Stuart Hamilton as he concluded his term as Chair of the IWA Water Loss Specialist Group (WLSG). His dedication has made a significant contribution to advancing water loss management practices across the international community. He is succeeded by Gary Wyeth as Chair of the WLSG.
Looking ahead to Water Loss 2028
The next Water Loss Conference will take place in 2028 in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. This location holds particular significance for Veolia, which has been operating in the country for more than twenty years. Through its activities, particularly those of Engineering & Consulting, the Group supports the development of the water and wastewater sectors in Oman, helping to strengthen essential public services and improve their long-term performance.