Over 100 exhibitors from around the world are participating in the third Watec Conference on Water Technologies, Renewable Energy, and Environmental Control , which opens today in Tel Aviv, and the conference organizers expect over 20,000 visitors. Foreign delegations include representatives from South Korean water companies and the first ever delegation from Russia.
Israel NewTech director Oded Distel estimates that Israeli water technology companies transactions at over $2 billion this year, and that the figure is growing steadily. He told "Globes", "Crises boost the need to lower the amortization of water caused by aging infrastructures in many cities around the world. There is great interest in keeping the water inside the pipes by repairing them, instead of letting it go to waste."
Distel added, "Broken pipes also let in hazards, which are liable to affect the water quality. There are many Israeli companies with offerings in these areas."
Watec participants are visiting Israeli sewage treatment plants, Mekorot National Water Company sites where various water technologies are being tested, as part of an effort to expand exports.
Israel Export and International Cooperation Institute director Avi Hefetz said, "Israel's water industry has been one of the greatest and most important sources of exports over the past decade. By 2014, this business will reach $2.7 billion. This estimate assumes that the global water distress will worsen, boosting demand for high-quality potable water. This creates a huge business potential for Israeli companies, which have an excellent reputation in the field."
According to the Export Institute, over 200 Israeli companies export water technologies. The main export destination is the US, followed by Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, France, India, Mexico, China, and Turkey.
Watec chairman Baruch Oren said, "By 2030, humanity will consume 50% more water than today, and there is no natural source to supply it without the use of technologies. Israel realized this sooner than other countries, and by 2015, it will be an independent country in this field, no longer dependent on rain. Israel will rely on desalinated water, recycled water, and state-of-the-art water management systems."
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on November 15, 2011
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