CEBEDEAU

What we do: CEBEDEAU is a leading Belgian research and expertise center dedicated to sustainable water management. We specialize in the treatment, purification, and valorization of water resources, offering a comprehensive range of services including technical assistance, research, validation of water treatment technologies, water sampling and analysis, data processing, environmental microbiology, and legal and administrative support. Our solutions are tailored for both public and industrial clients, with a strong focus on circularity, energy efficiency, and nature-based approaches. We develop and optimize advanced water treatment processes—especially biological methods involving bacterial consortia—aiming to produce reusable water and transform pollutants into valuable products such as sludge, phosphorus, bioplastics, and volatile fatty acids. CEBEDEAU also provides training for engineers and technicians in water treatment processes and plant design, and is actively involved in international collaborations to advance water technology[1][3][5].

Where we are located: Our headquarters are located at the University of Liège’s Sart Tilman campus, Allée de la Découverte 11, 4000 Liège, Belgium. This strategic location allows us to collaborate closely with academic and industrial partners, both locally and internationally[3][5].

Short history: Founded in 1947, CEBEDEAU has built a long-standing reputation as an independent center of expertise in water treatment and environmental engineering. Over the decades, we have continuously evolved our research and technological capabilities, supporting both large corporations and SMEs in addressing the growing challenges of water sustainability. Our commitment to innovation and environmental stewardship has positioned us as a trusted partner in the water sector, with a legacy of practical, science-driven solutions[1][3][5].

Organization & culture: CEBEDEAU employs a dynamic team of approximately 25–36 professionals, including researchers, engineers, and technical experts. Our culture is rooted in integrity, innovation, and collaboration, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning. We value diversity of skills—from project management to applied research—and foster an environment where employees are encouraged to grow both personally and professionally. By participating in programs like the European Junior Water Programme, we promote the development of young water professionals across Europe, further strengthening our network and expertise[1][6].

Recent developments: CEBEDEAU continues to focus on innovation in water treatment, particularly in microbiological monitoring for drinking water safety and the development of circular economy approaches. Recent projects include upgrading wastewater treatment plants for industrial partners to ensure compliance with effluent standards, developing continuous granulation processes for urban water, and creating innovative performance tests for UV disinfection systems. Our research also addresses the impacts of climate change and biodiversity loss on water resources, ensuring our solutions remain relevant and forward-looking[5].