Sustainable industrial water treatment: 15 years of alternative solutions at BWT

In 2025, BWT France celebrates the fifteenth anniversary of its emblematic and sustainable technology, the BWT ECO-MX, an alternative industrial water treatment solution that has marked a major step in the ecological transition of manufacturers. This anniversary is also an opportunity to highlight more recent technological advances, such as BWT ECO-UV and the development of biodegradable and, in the near future, biosourced chemicals derived from alternative chemicals. More sustainable water treatment makes it possible to act on three key issues for many industries: saving water, saving energy and reducing the environmental impact of industrial processes on the natural environment.

By combining innovative technologies, alternative chemicals and operational efficiency, BWT affirms its position as leader in the field of industrial water treatment. These tailor-made solutions support industry players in their transition towards more responsible and sustainable management of water resources.

BWT France is constantly innovating, but also relies on a range of tried and tested solutions that have ensured its position as a major player in industrial water treatment for many years.

"As the European leader in water treatment, we communicate a lot about our new solutions (alternative chemicals, disinfection using a mixed UV-C and hydrogen peroxide process, etc.), because they represent major innovations to support the food industry's ecological transition", explains Mikael Tournaux, Food Market Manager, BWT France. 

"However, it's important to remember that this groundbreaking work began almost 15 years ago with the BWT ECO-MX. This solution has been tried and tested over many years and continues to attract new customers every year, as well as remaining in place where it has been deployed. We continue to promote the BWT ECO-MX to demonstrate that our innovations remain innovations even 15 years after their launch".

In figures, the BWT ECO-MX technology means: more than 200 machines installed, more than 45 million tonnes of solution produced per year and, consequently, more than 5,000 tonnes of bleach saved per year, for treating water in cooling towers, closed circuits and other utility water.

For all sites equipped with cooling towers and closed circuits, BWT ECO-UV is the innovative solution for treating difficult water conditions and, along with the BWT ECO-MX disinfection system, offers a truly effective alternative to conventional chemical biocide treatments.

BWT ECO-UV works using a mixed biocidal process (UV-C + hydrogen peroxide) that disinfects circulating and/or stagnant water in the pond, allowing perfect control of the microbial load and a reduction in COD. UV-C lamps destroy the DNA of living cells, while activated hydrogen peroxide helps to control biofilm (free radicals). The synergy of these two technologies ensures that treatment remains effective throughout the circuit, thereby complying with regulations.

The BWT ECO-UV can be sized according to the volume of water required to operate the installation, and can be used to manage shutdown and restart periods. It protects equipment from the impact of corrosion (absence of chlorine/bromine) thanks to continuous use and dosage.

300 BWT ECO-UV lamps are already installed on more than 30 industrial sites.

BWT France stands out for its continuous innovation aimed at reducing the use of conventional chemicals with its scientific approach: alternative chemicals.

BWT France is now marketing its first five green products, including two phosphorus-free scale inhibitors, an azole-free copper corrosion inhibitor, a phosphorus-free biodispersant and a sludge remover for climatic circuits, which have already been deployed in a number of tenement, service and public buildings.

This initiative is the first step in BWT's water treatment strategy, which focuses on biodegradability, non-toxicity and the absence of phosphorus and azole in its eco-responsible solutions. The aim is to replace some of the conventional chemical treatments that present risks to human health, the environment and the economy.

In conclusion, BWT is establishing itself as a major player in sustainable industrial water treatment, combining technological innovation, sector expertise and environmental commitment.Its global approach, from plant design to maintenance, ensures optimum performance and compliance with environmental and regulatory standards.With a strengthened presence across the country and close collaboration with industrial partners, BWT affirms its role as a leader in the transition towards responsible and sustainable management of water resources.