Kalundborg (DK)

About

Kalundborg is home to one of the world's most well-established industrial symbiosis networks, where nine companies from different sectors collaborate to share resources like energy and water. At the heart of this collaboration is Kalundborg Forsyning, which manages the regional water supply.

With two major biotech firms planning to significantly increase production by 2028, water demand in the region is expected to rise – and with it, the need for diverse, fit-for-purpose water sources. Currently reliant on groundwater and treated surface water, Kalundborg is now exploring a broader mix of AWR, including wastewater reuse, seawater desalination and rainwater harvesting.

RECREATE focus in Kalundborg:

• Evaluate how different AWR sources can serve industries with varying water quality requirements
• Model the water-energy nexus of using different water sources and treatment levels
• Stress test current water infrastructure to assess resilience under future scenarios
• Develop adaptation strategies for integrating new AWR connections

Long-term objectives:

• Design an integrated water management strategy that ensures long-term, sustainable water supply for Kalundborg's industrial symbiosis
• Minimise environmental impacts from conventional water extraction and wastewater discharge
• Support the creation of a new entity within Kalundborg Forsyning dedicated to managing circular water flows and separating industrial and potable water needs

This case study showcases how collaborative, cross-sectoral planning can enable industrial regions to lead in sustainable and adaptive water resource management.