Water Treatment and Purification

Singapore is among the world’s most water-stressed countries. Its water demand is estimated to double by 2060, with 70% drawn for non-domestic use.

Adding to the nation’s water challenges are unpredictable drought and extreme rainfall events, emerging water pollutants from domestic and industrial activities, and rising temperatures.

To mitigate these challenges, continual research and development of innovative water treatment and management solutions and technologies are required. These will sustain Singapore’s increasing future water demand.

Our Approach

NUS’ water research programme is primarily hosted by the NUS Environmental Research Institute (NERI) – a university-level research institute that was setup to focus on the development of integrated sustainability solutions for water and the environment.



Equipped with state-of-the-art analytical laboratory facilities, water research at NUS encompasses sustainable solutions for water management and technologies, from source to tap. NUS’ research competencies include catchment management, water monitoring and sensing, treatment of drinking water, reclamation of domestic and industrial used water, seawater desalination and energy and resource recovery.

To improve water policy and governance in Asia through research, training, thought leadership and consulting, the Institute of Water Policy at the The Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, produces policy-relevant research that helps shape the discourse on water policy in Asia.

NUS’ water research activities are conducted in collaboration with government agencies, leading academic institutions, local and multi-national companies to create integrated energy-water-resource solutions that meets Singapore’s growing demand and enhance NUS’s leadership in water innovation.