Event held in Rio de Janeiro promoted knowledge exchange, technical discussions and international collaboration around one of the sanitation sector’s main challenges
Rio de Janeiro, May 2025 – Between April 26 and 29, Rio de Janeiro welcomed specialists, utility operators, researchers and institutions from different parts of the world to discuss concrete solutions for reducing water losses. Throughout the program, the event established itself as a qualified space for knowledge exchange and networking aimed at addressing one of the main challenges faced by water supply systems.
Participants shared practical experiences and discussed common challenges faced in different contexts. The presentations brought diverse perspectives on the topic, highlighting how water loss management is directly connected to the efficiency of water supply systems, water security and the sustainability of services.
As host of the event, the Brazilian Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering (ABES) played a central role in organizing the meeting, helping position Brazil at the center of global discussions on the topic and expanding dialogue between national and international specialists. “Hosting WaterLoss in Brazil was a unique opportunity to bring together different realities, cultures and practices, strengthening knowledge exchange around a challenge that is truly global. Water losses directly impact system efficiency and water security, and this type of gathering is essential to accelerate solutions and promote concrete advances in the sector,” said Marcel Sanches, National President of ABES.
The event also stood out as an important networking platform, fostering connections among professionals from different countries and strengthening international collaboration around solutions applicable to the sector’s reality. The diversity of experiences presented reinforced the need for integrated approaches adapted to local specificities, while also highlighting global trends in water loss management.
The final day featured the closing ceremony, which included important announcements regarding the future of the group. On the occasion, Gary Wyeth assumed the role of General Coordinator of the IWA Water Loss Specialist Group, succeeding the previous leadership and reinforcing the continuity of initiatives focused on advancing best practices in the sector. It was also announced that Oman will host WaterLoss 2028.
With a legacy of connections, learning experiences and new perspectives, WaterLoss 2026 reinforced the importance of global cooperation in addressing one of the main challenges of modern sanitation. ABES thanks all participants, partners and professionals who contributed to the success of the event and to the strengthening of the sector.
Foto: https://drive.google.com/file/d/15WnRSAr617JstQ96QuaP_OIKFTNxEOPZ/view?usp=sharing