Speaker Insights

Ahead of the WEX Global Bioeconomy Summit, we asked our speakers to share their perspectives on the opportunities, challenges and innovations shaping the global bioeconomy.

1. Why is now such an important moment for the water and bioeconomy sectors?

We in the Western Balkans region are at a turning point, with major investments in water and wastewater driven by EU accession, climate pressures, and the transition to green and circular economies. The opportunity now is to move beyond simply building infrastructure and make sure these investments deliver long-term environmental, economic and social value.

2. What is the biggest opportunity in wastewater and resource recovery?

The biggest opportunity is to stop seeing wastewater simply as something to be treated and disposed of, and start seeing it as a source of energy, water and other valuable resources. Also to stop seeing the treatment process as a cost but more as an investment that will bring income. But technology alone is not enough — we need the right skills, operational capacity, enforcement of laws, financing , and innovation to turn resource recovery into practical, scalable solutions.

3. Who are you hoping to connect with at the WEX Global Bioeconomy Summit?

I am particularly interested in connecting with technology providers, investors, utilities, IFIs and climate and innovation funds that are interested in turning ideas into practical solutions. I am especially looking for partners who would be interested in testing, demonstrating and scaling circular and resource-recovery pilot solutions in the Western Balkans.