Vesihuki project investigates the carbon footprint of water supply in Joensuu

Vesihuki project aims to promote circular economy and carbon neutrality in water supply and water treatment facilities in Finland. A new calculation tool will be introduced and a cooperation network set up to support these facilities. The main executor of the project is Finnish Environment Institute (SYKE).  

The carbon footprint of water supply will be examined both on national and water treatment facility level. Four water treatment plants participate in the project: Kymen Vesi, Kouvolan Vesi, Joensuun Vesi and Tampereen Vesi. Plant examinations provide information on the impact of different operating environments on the carbon footprint and emission reduction measures, since the size, location and cleaning methods of the plants may vary. 

The Vesihuki project will develop a web-based calculation tool open to all, which allows the water treatment facilities to make an indicative assessment of their own carbon footprint and compare the effectiveness of different emission reduction measures. 

Vesihuki network will be set up during the project. The network acts as a forum for both water treatment facilities and municipal actors to share best practices and information, and to get peer support and new ideas.  

The project runs between 1.4.2022–31.12.2023. It’s funded by the Ministry of the Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Finland, the Finnish Water Utilities Association’s development fund and accompanying pilot plants: Kymen Vesi, Kouvolan Vesi, Joensuun Vesi and Tampereen Vesi. The project partners include AFRY Finland Oy and the Finnish Water Utilities Association.