Building the Circular Economy
How Wastewater Utilities are Becoming Urban Bio-Refineries
The decision to launch the inaugural WEX Global Bioeconomy Summit was driven by a simple observation:
A major global transition is now underway : From Waste Management to Resource Optimisation
For decades, wastewater treatment plants have focused on protecting public health and the environment. Today, that role is expanding.
Across the world, wastewater, biosolids and other organic waste streams are increasingly being recognised not as disposal challenges, but as valuable resources capable of generating energy, nutrients, materials, reclaimed water and carbon value.
The result is the emergence of a new model: the urban bio-refinery.
A New Era of Opportunity
For utilities, this represents one of the most significant opportunities in decades. Infrastructure once viewed primarily as a cost centre is increasingly becoming a platform for value creation, with new business models emerging around:
- Renewable Energy
- Biomethane
- Nutrient Recovery
- Biochar
- Carbon Credits
- Water Reuse
- Bio-Based Materials
At the same time, technology providers, engineering firms, investors, researchers and industrial partners are finding new opportunities to collaborate in developing and scaling these circular value chains.
Position your organisation at the forefront of the circular bioeconomy and discover how new partnerships, business models and markets are emerging around resource recovery, renewable energy, nutrient recycling and urban bio-refineries.
Join the leaders shaping the future of this rapidly evolving sector at the WEX Global Bioeconomy Summit.
WEX Global Bioeconomy Summit
2–4 November 2026
Lisbon, Portugal
We look forward to welcoming you to Lisbon.
