Rapid Growth Forecast in Water and Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market Through 2032

Growth of the Water and Wastewater Treatment Equipment Market

The global water and wastewater treatment equipment market is on the verge of significant expansion, with projections estimating it will reach a staggering USD 116.59 billion by the year 2032. As per a recent report by SkyQuest Technology Consulting, valued at USD 73.71 billion in 2024, the market anticipates a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.9% between 2025 and 2032. This rapid growth can be primarily attributed to rising levels of water pollution, enforced government regulations regarding water quality, and an increasing demand for clean and potable water spanning various sectors, be it industrial, municipal, or residential.

Key Growth Drivers

One of the fundamental drivers propelling the water and wastewater treatment equipment market is the growing apprehension surrounding water contamination. As urbanization and industrialization surge across the globe, so does the demand for effective treatment technologies that can proficiently manage wastewater and ensure sustainable practices in water management. This demand is further fueled by the implementation of stringent environmental regulations aimed at protecting water resources and public health.

Moreover, many municipalities are seeking modern solutions that can effectively address the dual challenge of water scarcity and pollution. A prevalent trend is the integration of advanced automated treatment technologies—such as membrane filtration, ultraviolet (UV) disinfection, and Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled smart monitoring systems—which are revolutionizing the industry towards enhanced efficiency and sustainability.

Recent Developments in the Market

In July 2025, H2O America made headlines by announcing the acquisition of Quadvest for $540 million, intending to bolster utility operations in the Houston area. This acquisition not only expands their footprint but also signals their commitment to investing over $500 million into infrastructure modernization within the next five years, aiming to become Texas’s second-largest investor-owned utility.

On the other side of the Atlantic, London’s ambitious £5 billion Thames Tideway Tunnel project, affectionately dubbed the “Super Sewer,” was inaugurated by King Charles III on May 7, 2025. This monumental infrastructure project channels storm and sewage flows to treatment works, relieving pollution pressures in central London and marking a significant milestone in European wastewater management.

Meanwhile, in October 2024, a cutting-edge minimum liquid discharge treatment plant initiated operations at Da Tang Industrial Park in Foshan, China. This facility is designed to treat 160,000 m³/day for textile manufacturers, harnessing advanced technologies including nanofiltration, reverse osmosis, and electrodialysis to minimize effluent volumes and facilitate water recycling within the sector.

Competitive Landscape

The landscape of the water and wastewater treatment equipment market is highly competitive and shaped by ongoing innovation, industry consolidation, and sustainability initiatives. Prominent players in this sector include Veolia, Xylem, Ecolab, DuPont, and Pentair, who are utilizing diverse technologies such as filtration, disinfection, and sludge management to meet rising environmental demands. For example, Pentair has recently bolstered its filtration capabilities with the acquisition of Porous Media for approximately $225 million, enhancing its global operational footprint.

Challenges Facing the Industry

Despite its promising outlook, the water and wastewater treatment equipment market grapples with several challenges. One of the significant hurdles is the considerable upfront investment and ongoing operational costs associated with advanced treatment technologies. Furthermore, the complexity of integrating new systems into existing infrastructure poses a barrier, particularly in developing regions where resources are limited.

Additionally, the industry faces a shortage of skilled professionals adept at operating and maintaining sophisticated equipment, which can impede progress. Variations in government policies across different regions further add to this uncertainty, complicating long-term planning and investments for market participants.

Conclusion

As the need for cleaner water escalates in the face of growing pollution and population demands, stakeholders in the water and wastewater treatment market must navigate these challenges while capitalizing on advancements in technology. By leveraging innovation and adopting sustainable practices, the industry stands poised for significant growth, aiming to contribute to global water security and quality.

For further insights and a comprehensive overview of the water and wastewater treatment equipment market, companies are encouraged to delve into specialized reports and analyses, such as those available through SkyQuest Technology Consulting.