Green Innovation Highlighted at Water Treatment Conference in Tianjin

The 18th National Water Treatment Chemistry Conference, co-hosted by Tianjin University and the Applied Chemistry Committee of the Chinese Chemical Society, concluded successfully in Tianjin from March 28 to 30. Centered on the theme "Innovative Development of Water Treatment Under Pollution Reduction, Carbon Reduction, and Green Expansion Goals," the event attracted seven academicians from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Chinese Academy of Engineering, alongside over 1,000 experts and scholars, who gathered to discuss groundbreaking approaches to water environment management.

In his opening address, Chai Liyuan, academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and President of Tianjin University, emphasized the critical role of water treatment chemistry in bridging environmental protection and resource recycling, especially under China's "dual carbon" strategic goals and ecological initiatives.

Professor Bai Mindong led an innovative team that developed hydroxyl radical-based technologies for efficient, eco-friendly control of micro-harmful organisms and carbon storage via marine microalgae. These technologies have seen large-scale applications in Fujian Province waters and Bohai Bay, contributing China's solutions to global marine ecological conservation.

Academicians Qu Jiuhui, Li Jiabiao, Duan Ning, Rren Hongqiang, and Xu Zuxin presented forward-looking insights ranging from molecular transfer micro-field effects to cross-scale explorations of deep-sea habitats. They highlighted cutting-edge techniques such as real-time microscopic digitalization and smart water-quality resilience management, charting the course for future water treatment technologies.

The conference featured 15 specialized sessions addressing critical topics including drinking water safety, wastewater recycling, advanced industrial wastewater treatment, and land-sea pollution control. Over 450 presentations showcased novel developments in green water treatment agents, artificial intelligence, and big data applications. The event fostered significant industry-academic collaborations and concluded with groundbreaking solutions presented by leading scientists, underscoring the shift toward integrated terrestrial and marine water governance to achieve sustainable ecological restoration and environmental harmony.

By: Qin Mian