About
Objectives of “Wat leeft?”
- Discover the wastewater journey
- Understanding why clean wastewater is important
- Protecting water and the environment through simple everyday actions
- Taking responsibility – for nature, resources and costs
What does “Wat leeft?” mean?
“Wat leeft?” is a Luxembourgish expression that deliberately plays on words. On the one hand, it can be translated as “What’s new?” or “What’s going on?”. On the other hand, it refers to what is circulating or flowing somewhere. In the context of this campaign, “Wat leeft?” thus refers to the question of what is happening in the pipes and sewage treatment plants.
Why “Wat leeft?”
For most people, wastewater disposal and treatment are issues that are not very visible in everyday life. According to the principle of ‘out of sight, out of mind’, many people do not worry about what happens to their wastewater after they flush the toilet or empty the sink. However, the sanitation system is much more complex: it is a sophisticated network of pipes and modern technologies that make a vital contribution to human health and the protection of aquatic environments.1
Furthermore, few people are aware that they can contribute to water protection themselves through simple everyday actions. By acting consciously, it is possible to reduce pollution, avoid unnecessary overload of treatment plants and control water treatment costs.
The objective of the “Wat leeft?” campaign is therefore twofold:
- Show what happens in the pipes and treatment plants – what ‘flows’ through them.
- Provide the general public with practical advice so that everyone can contribute to sustainable wastewater management.
What is “Wat leeft?”
“Wat leeft?” is a three-year national campaign launched by the Luxembourg Water Services Association (ALUSEAU). It is funded by members of the association (sanitation) and the Ministry of the Environment.
Through various media channels, the campaign aims to make the issue of sanitation tangible for the population of the Grand Duchy and to show the role that everyone can play.
The website ofwaasser.lu centralises the campaign content and also provides additional information on wastewater treatment.
Who is behind ‘Wat leeft?’
The Luxembourg Water Services Association (ALUSEAU) brings together stakeholders in the water sector in Luxembourg. Its mission is to promote, in the public interest, the common concerns of public institutions and services involved in water management.
Founded in 1974, the association’s members include Luxembourg’s towns and municipalities, inter-municipal drinking water and sanitation associations, as well as the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST) and the University of Luxembourg (Uni.lu), Research Unit in Engineering Science.
To mark its 50th anniversary in 2024, ALUSEAU commissioned ILRES to conduct a representative survey on the population’s knowledge of wastewater treatment. This survey serves as the basis for the content of the “Wat leeft?” awareness campaign. The campaign is funded by the association’s members (sanitation) and the Ministry of the Environment.
How much does the Luxembourgish population know about wastewater treatment?
The survey results show that there is genuine interest in the subject, even if the level of knowledge could be improved. Many citizens were unaware that it is possible to visit local wastewater treatment plants and gain a better understanding of the treatment process (see the “Plants” section). However, there is clear interest in this type of activity.
When it comes to wastewater disposal behaviour, many good habits are already in place. However, certain aspects – such as the disposal of wet wipes – still require further awareness-raising. The majority of respondents are aware that their individual behaviour influences the composition of wastewater and are willing to adapt their habits.
These results confirm that, despite the limited visibility of the issue, the public’s interest and willingness to take action are clearly present.
The detailed results of the survey (in French) can be obtained on request from ofwaasser@aluseau.lu.
Other actions along the same lines
This project is part of a broader initiative to raise environmental awareness in Luxembourg. It complements other essential actions that encourage sustainable behaviour in everyday life.
Administration de la gestion de l’eau
Drives water policy in Luxembourg: monitoring, quality, sustainable resource management and protection of the water cycle.
Administration de l’Environnement
Develops and coordinates public policies to preserve natural resources and improve the quality of our living environment.
SuperDrecksKëscht
A national initiative to better manage our waste, sort it efficiently and reduce hazardous products in our drains.
Eco-Management and Audit Scheme (EMAS)
A European label that recognises organisations committed to exemplary and transparent environmental management.
Anti-gaspi
A national initiative that combats food waste and encourages more responsible consumption practices.
Inspiring More Sustainability (IMS)
The network of companies committed to sustainable transition in Luxembourg, through concrete and collaborative projects.