#Japan #Minato #Watering Inc. #smartphone microscope #activated sludge

Watering Inc. Wins Prestigious Award for Smartphone Microscope Research

Overview
Watering Inc., headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, recently achieved the prestigious Grand Prize at the 61st Sewage Research Conference for its exceptional research presented under the title "Observation of Biological Communities in Activated Sludge Using a Smartphone Microscope." This award was announced during the 14th Regular General Meeting organized by the Japan Sewage Works Association on June 27, 2025.

The innovative poster presentation aimed to develop a rapid and efficient method for observing the biological communities within activated sludge in wastewater treatment facilities. The research received high praise for its novelty and practicality, leading to its recognition as the best of the conference.

Award Ceremony Highlights
The award ceremony saw the participation of numerous researchers and industry professionals who acknowledged the research's innovation and practicality. This event provided a platform for meaningful discussions and recognition of advancements in wastewater treatment technology.

Recipient's Remarks
In response to being awarded the Grand Prize in the Japanese Poster Presentation category, Hiroaki Nakata, the head of the Application Technology Department at Watering Inc., expressed heartfelt gratitude to all involved—judges, attendees, and those who interacted with the poster presentation. Nakata shared insights on the rapid advancements in smartphone and related app technologies, noting the potential future for these tools to achieve microscope-level resolution and rapid species identification through specialized applications. He emphasized the importance of exploring new applications of smartphone microscopes within the water treatment sector.

Educational Uses
The feedback received from participants during the sewage research conference has inspired Watering Inc. to actively integrate smartphone microscopes not only in practical uses within wastewater treatment facilities but also in educational settings. In May, the company organized a visit for local elementary school students to a wastewater treatment facility where they experienced observing microorganisms in activated sludge using smartphone microscopes.

The participating children were amazed by the size and diversity of the microorganisms they observed. Feedback from the students included remarks like, "The poster was very educational!" and, "I can't believe I could see such tiny creatures with a smartphone!" This interaction deepened the children's understanding of how microorganisms play a vital role in purifying water.

Further Contributions
As Watering Inc. continues to pioneer advancements in water treatment technologies, they remain committed to enhancing societal contributions via their core principle that emphasizes the importance of water as a life's source. Their comprehensive approach includes the design, construction, and management of wastewater facilities, maintaining approximately 300 operational facilities across Japan.

By continuously addressing community needs and striving towards a circular economy, Watering Inc. aims to ensure a safe and secure water environment for future generations.

Additional Information

• - Press Release: Grand Prize Winner at the 61st Sewage Research Conference

About Watering Inc.

Watering Inc. operates under the mission of contributing to society through water, a source of life. The company encompasses all aspects of wastewater treatment, from management to maintenance, across various facilities including purification plants and sewage treatment centers. Their goal is to provide reliable water environments while promoting sustainable practices.