On the final day of the conference, on June 17, participants will have the opportunity to join one of four technical visits.
Please note that the programs below are currently being finalized and may be subject to changes; attendees will be asked to select their preferred visit at the time of registration.
1. Joint Research Centre (JRC) of the European Commission – Ispra
Estimated duration: 8 hours
This full-day visit to the Joint Research Centre (JRC) in Ispra explores how scientific research supports EU policymaking. The programme includes presentations by leading scientists on water quality and European Commission policies, an interactive role-play game on the challenges of water reuse, and guided tours of specialized research laboratories.
2. Advanced WWTP & Ticino Park – Malpensa
Estimated duration: 5 hours
This visit focuses on large-scale wastewater treatment and biodiversity conservation. Participants will visit a 400,000 PE treatment plant authorized for wastewater reuse and compliant with the new Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. The programme also highlights circular economy and ecological approaches through a fish-farming project for river restocking, and showcases nature-based solutions such as constructed wetlands supporting the Black-winged Stilt.
3. Resource Recovery Facilities – Milan Surroundings
Estimated duration: 5 hours
This visit focuses on circular economy approaches and the valorization of organic streams. Participants will explore operational solutions for recovering nutrients and renewable energy from sewage sludge and other organic streams, discover innovative processes for producing high-value bioproducts, and examine how these recovery pathways are strategically integrated into waste and water service chains.
4. Centrale dell’Acqua Museum – Milan
Estimated duration: 2-3 hours
This technical tour combines a visit to the Centrale dell’Acqua Museum with a short walking tour to explore the historical and cultural relationship between Milan and its water. Participants will visit the historic pumping station and multimedia exhibits, followed by an urban walk highlighting how water infrastructure, canals, and engineering solutions have shaped the city and continue to support Milan’s drinking water system.