Green reconstruction: exchange of experts on water infrastructure between Jena and Brovary

A delegation from the Ukrainian twin city of Brovary visited Jena on December 1 and 2 to discuss modern solutions for water supply and wastewater treatment. The visit took place as part of the "Green Reconstruction Concept" pilot project initiated by UNIDO (United Nations Industrial Development Organization), which aims to sustainably rebuild critical infrastructure in Ukraine

Knowledge transfer for a sustainable infrastructure

Accompanied by UNIDO representatives and technical experts, the four delegates from the municipal water and wastewater company learned about efficient technologies and operating processes in Jena.

The program on Monday included a visit to Stadtwerke Jena Netze. The focus here was on drinking water treatment, digitalization and process automation. Of particular interest were processes that not only ensure water quality in accordance with EU standards, but also work in an energy-efficient manner. There was also a technical exchange with the health department of the city of Jena on aspects of hygiene and environmental medicine.

On Tuesday, the group visited the central sewage treatment plant in Jena. In talks with René Stubenrauch, the plant manager, innovative approaches to wastewater treatment and the use of sewage sludge to generate energy were discussed.

Background: Need for renovation in Brovary

The wastewater treatment plants in Brovary have been in operation for over 40 years without any fundamental refurbishment. Outdated technology and the effects of the war are jeopardizing the stability of the disposal system. The aim of the joint project is to update an existing feasibility study for the reconstruction of the plants.

"The exchange goes far beyond mere solidarity. We are providing our partner city with concrete support in building up technical expertise in order to prepare investments for a modern, green and energy-independent water management system," said Matthias Bettenhäuser, Head of the Mayor's Department, after the final meeting.

An international cooperation project

The project is financially and organizationally supported by UNIDO and aims to make Brovary fit for international environmental standards and future financing by donor organizations. In addition to Jena, the Polish district of Grodzisk Wielkopolski is also a partner in the project, to which the delegation traveled after its stay in Jena.

The results of this exchange are to serve as a basis for modernizing the water infrastructure in Brovary and repositioning it as a model project for sustainable development in Ukraine.