The Water Environment Federation (WEF) partnered with SABESP, São Paulo’s water and sanitation company, to host a five-day Operator Exchange Study Tour in Brazil from August 25–29, 2025. This program brought together water sector professionals from the US and Brazil to share expertise, strengthen workforce development, and explore circular water economy solutions in one of the world’s largest metropolitan regions.
Participants engaged in a series of technical visits, presentations, and community-focused activities, including:
- Orientation and overview at SABESP headquarters, featuring sessions on SABESP’s history, mission, and the operational scale of São Paulo’s water and sewage infrastructure.
- Field visits to major facilities such as the Santa Inês Pumping Station, Guaraú Water Treatment Plant, Cantareira Small Hydropower Plant, and ABC Wastewater Treatment Plant—showcasing advanced water supply, treatment, and renewable energy operations.
- Tour of Aquapolo, South America’s largest reclaimed water production project, which supplies recycled water to the Capuava Petrochemical Complex and industries in the ABC Paulista region, demonstrating innovative climate-resilient water management.
- Community engagement through the “Se Liga na Rede” Program in Brasilândia, a social initiative connecting low-income families to the public sewage system, improving public health, environmental recovery, and community empowerment.
- Networking and cultural experiences in São Paulo, including local cuisine, travel tips, and practical advice for navigating Brazil’s vibrant urban environment.
The study tour provided a unique opportunity for operator-level exchange, fostering professional growth, cross-cultural understanding, and collaboration on sustainable water solutions. Participants gained firsthand insights into Brazil’s efforts to universalize water services, the impact of SABESP’s privatization, and the role of innovative projects in advancing the circular water economy.
