Water scarcity and environmental concerns have prompted industries to adopt sustainable water management practices. FrieslandCampina, one of the world's leading dairy companies, has become a shining example of sustainable water reuse and caustic recovery. By partnering with Veolia Water Technologies, FrieslandCampina has implemented an innovative solution that not only conserves water, but also recovers valuable resources. This article highlights FrieslandCampina's success and the significant impact of its sustainable water management practices.
The challenge
FrieslandCampina was faced with the challenge of managing the significant water footprint associated with its dairy production processes. As a responsible company committed to sustainable development, it was looking for a solution that would reduce water consumption, minimise waste production and recover by-products.
Veolia's solution
In collaboration with Veolia, FrieslandCampina implemented a complete water reuse and product recovery system. The solution included the integration of state-of-the-art technologies, including membrane filtration, evaporators and crystallisers, tailored to the specific needs of the dairy industry.
Water reuse and resource recovery
Veolia's solution has enabled FrieslandCampina to treat and reuse wastewater generated by dairy production. Advanced membrane filtration systems were used to obtain high-quality water that could be reused in various processes. The treated water was used for cleaning, equipment sterilisation and irrigation, reducing the need for fresh water and the impact on the environment.
Energy-efficient evaporation
Evaporators and crystallisers have been installed to concentrate wastewater and recover useful by-products. These energy-efficient systems use the principles of evaporation and condensation to separate water from dissolved solids, recovering high-quality products such as lactose, proteins and salts. By transforming wastewater into a valuable resource, FrieslandCampina has not only reduced waste disposal costs, but also created new sources of income.
Environmental benefits
The sustainable water reuse and product recovery solution implemented by FrieslandCampina and Veolia has resulted in significant environmental benefits. Reduced freshwater abstraction and wastewater discharges have eased pressure on local water sources. In addition, the recovery of valuable by-products has reduced the company's environmental footprint and promoted the principles of the circular economy.
⬇️ Read the interview with Pieter-Jan BOGAERT, Environmental Manager at Friesland Campina ⬇️
LFrieslandCampina's partnership with Veolia to implement a sustainable solution for water reuse and product recovery demonstrates its commitment to environmental protection and responsible resource management. By prioritising water conservation, wastewater treatment and resource recovery, FrieslandCampina has not only achieved operational efficiencies, but has also contributed to a more sustainable and circular economy. This success is a source of inspiration for other industries looking to implement innovative water management practices and demonstrates the significant positive impact that can be achieved through sustainable water reuse and product recovery.
