Luuk de Waal MSc

Luuk de Waal is a senior researcher in water technology, specializing in innovative water treatment and the beneficial use and reuse of residual streams.

His work covers a wide range of water types, from fresh groundwater and surface water to concentrates, brackish groundwater, industrial residual streams, and treated wastewater. In collaboration with drinking water companies, public authorities, water boards, industry, and the agricultural sector, he develops innovative technologies with significant potential societal value. By integrating these innovations with established treatment methods, he works toward scalable, robust, and circular water treatment concepts.

His work is guided by three key principles: strengthening resilience, applying nature-based solutions where possible and technology where necessary, and advancing the Circular Water 2050 vision. By connecting innovative, scientifically grounded insights with complex societal challenges, Luuk contributes to the collective transition toward a future-proof water system.

Luuk studied chemistry at Utrecht University and holds a joint master’s degree in Water Technology from the universities of Wageningen, Groningen, and Enschede. Alongside his work at KWR Water Research Institute, he is pursuing a PhD at Ghent University on recovering valuable components from residual streams generated during drinking water production.