Green Chemicals in Water Treatment (GREENCHEM) in Asia focuses on improving drinking water treatment under algal bloom conditions through an innovative and sustainable approach, driven by close collaboration between the Netherlands and Taiwan.
Background
Algal blooms are an increasing challenge for drinking water utilities worldwide. Conventional treatment methods struggle to simultaneously remove algae, algal toxins, organic matter, and taste & odor compounds. As a result, utilities rely heavily on chemicals such as chlorine and PACl, leading to:
- High chemical consumption
- Operational complexity
- Formation of unwanted byproducts
At the same time, there is increasing pressure to reduce environmental impact and move toward greener treatment solutions.
A Unique Taiwan–Netherlands Collaboration
GREENCHEM is built on a strong partnership between Dutch and Taiwanese water sector leaders. The Netherlands contributes cutting-edge expertise in sustainable and innovative water treatment technologies, while Taiwan provides real-world experience with severe and recurring algal bloom conditions.
This collaboration enables:
- Validation of Dutch innovation under challenging Asian conditions
- Intensive knowledge exchange between utilities, academia, and industry
- Faster development of scalable, practical solutions
The project is supported by the Partners for Water program of the Dutch government, implemented by Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland, highlighting the strategic importance of international water cooperation.
Project Approach
GREENCHEM builds on a successful feasibility study funded under Partners for Water and now moves into a pilot-scale demonstration.
At the core of the project is the testing of FerSol®, a green alternative to conventional treatment chemicals. The pilot focuses on:
- Removal of algal cells
- Reduction of algal toxins
- Treatment of organic contamination
- Robust performance under seasonal variations
Pilot Location
The pilot is conducted at the Luzhu Water Treatment Plant in Taiwan, a key facility supplying drinking water for both urban and industrial users. The plant experiences:
- Frequent algal bloom disruptions
- Strong fluctuations in raw water quality
- Continuous operational challenges
Project Partners
- Lead partner: Ferr-Tech
- Dutch partner: IHE Delft Institute for Water Education
- International partners:
- Taiwan Water Corporation
- National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University
- Chung Yuan Christian University
- Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science
- Stantec
Objectives
The project aims to demonstrate:
- Stable and reliable drinking water production
- Improved water quality
- Reduced chemical use
- Lower environmental impact
Expected Outcomes
GREENCHEM will deliver:
- Technical validation of FerSol®
- Practical operational guidelines
- Insight into scaling up the technology in Taiwan and similar contexts
Broader Impact
The project contributes to:
- Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation)
- Sustainable Development Goal 13 (Climate Action)
By combining Dutch innovation with Taiwanese operational expertise, and with support from Partners for Water and Rijksdienst voor Ondernemend Nederland, GREENCHEM strengthens international cooperation and advances resilient, sustainable drinking water systems.
