United States (USA) Water and Wastewater Treatment Market Overview, 2028

U.S. per capita water consumption is among the highest in the world, amounting to more than twice that of other industrialized nations such as Germany, Japan, and the United Kingdom. In the United States, water provision depends on an extensive but decentralized collection of independent systems. There are more than 148,000 of these across the country, with roughly 50,000 considered “community water systems,” defined as permanent structures that operate year-round. Just 9.0% of these community water systems provide water to nearly 80 percent of the country. The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) is a program established by the Federal Clean Water Act and the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law. NPDES permits establish discharge limits and conditions for discharges from municipal wastewater treatment facilities to waters of the United States. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has played a pivotal role in the United States' response to the COVID-19 pandemic through various initiatives, including the development of the National Wastewater Surveillance System (NWSS). The NWSS serves as a coordinated effort to support the monitoring of the virus responsible for COVID-19 in wastewater across the nation. This innovative approach has proven to be a valuable tool in early detection and surveillance of COVID-19 outbreaks. As of its implementation, over 1,250 testing sites throughout the United States have actively engaged in wastewater surveillance efforts. These sites encompass a diverse range of programs, including those led by local jurisdictions and others participating through commercial contracts managed by the CDC. Wastewater treatment in the United States not only safeguards public health and ecosystems but also promotes water reuse and conservation, contributing to sustainable water management practices. Moreover, ongoing efforts in research and development are improving treatment methods and technologies, making wastewater treatment more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly.

According to the research report, “United States Water and Wastewater Treatment Market Overview, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market was valued at more than USD 16.98 Billion market size in 2022. Wastewater treatment in the United States has been steadily increasing and evolving over the years, this upward trajectory is indicative of the country's commitment to protecting water resources and public health. Wastewater treatment in the United States is experiencing significant growth and advancement due to multiple factors, including increasing population and the continuous development of innovative technologies. As the U.S. population continues to grow steadily, there is a higher demand for residential, commercial, and industrial services, leading to an increase in wastewater generation. This surge in wastewater production underscores the necessity for expanding and upgrading existing wastewater treatment infrastructure. The nation’s water system is also tasked with managing wastewater and contributing to hydropower, agricultural irrigation, flood control, and industries such as oil, gas, and mining. Advancements in wastewater treatment technologies have played a pivotal role in accommodating this growth while ensuring efficient and environmentally responsible treatment processes. Cutting-edge treatment technologies have emerged to enhance the removal of contaminants, improve energy efficiency, and reduce the environmental footprint of wastewater treatment plants. These technologies include advanced biological treatment systems, membrane filtration, ultraviolet disinfection, and the integration of digital and sensor-based monitoring and control systems. These innovations not only improve treatment efficiency but also reduce operating costs and energy consumption, making wastewater treatment more sustainable. Increasing awareness of the importance of water quality and environmental conservation has led to stricter regulations and standards governing wastewater treatment in the United States. Federal and state agencies, along with environmental organizations, are pushing for improved treatment methods to protect water resources and ecosystems. This has spurred investments in research and development, driving the adoption of state-of-the-art technologies and best practices in the industry.

The Market is segmented into Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment and Water & Wastewater Treatment Chemicals. In the United States, the market for water and wastewater treatment chemicals leads the way in the field of wastewater treatment with more than 50% market share in 2022. These chemicals are a fundamental component of the wastewater treatment process, playing a crucial role in ensuring that the treatment plants can effectively remove contaminants and impurities from the water before it is released into the environment or returned for reuse. Water and wastewater treatment chemicals encompass a diverse range of substances, including coagulants, flocculants, disinfectants, pH adjusters, and corrosion inhibitors, among others. These chemicals are carefully dosed into the wastewater to facilitate the removal of solids, bacteria, and other pollutants, thus enhancing the treatment efficiency and the quality of the treated water. The growing need for improved water quality, stricter environmental regulations, and the increasing population in the United States has all contributed to the robust demand for these treatment chemicals. Along with this, the water and wastewater treatment equipment market in the United States is a dynamic and growing sector driven by the increasing need for clean and safe water sources, stringent environmental regulations, and infrastructure upgrades. This market encompasses a wide range of equipment, including filtration systems, pumps, disinfection technologies, membranes, and chemical dosing systems, and others. The demand for these products is spurred by the aging infrastructure of many water treatment facilities, necessitating replacements and modernization efforts.

Based on the Water & Wastewater Treatment Chemicals, the report is further categorized into Coagulants & Flocculants, Disinfectants & Biocidal Products, Scale & Corrosion Inhibitors, Antifoam Chemicals, pH adjusters and stabilizers, and Others (Oxidizing Agents, Chelating Agents, Odor Control Chemicals, Precipitants, Color Removal Agents, Sequestrants, Biodegradable Surfactants, etc.) Coagulants and flocculants play a pivotal role in the wastewater treatment market in the United States, dominating the way in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of treatment processes. These chemicals are instrumental in the removal of suspended solids, colloidal particles, and organic matter from wastewater, making it possible to achieve the desired water quality standards. Coagulants work by destabilizing particles and colloids, causing them to come together and form larger aggregates. Flocculants, on the other hand, aid in the formation of larger, settleable flocs from the smaller particles formed during coagulation. This dual approach enhances the settling and separation of impurities from the wastewater, simplifying the treatment process. The dominance of coagulants and flocculants in the wastewater treatment market reflects their versatility and efficiency in addressing a wide range of water quality challenges, including turbidity, color, and the removal of contaminants like heavy metals and pathogens. As a result, these chemicals are extensively used in various treatment applications, from municipal wastewater treatment plants to industrial processes, ensuring compliance with stringent environmental regulations. Disinfectants and biocidal products play a critical role in wastewater treatment by ensuring the removal or inactivation of harmful microorganisms and pathogens present in wastewater. Biocides are used for drinking water treatment, wastewater treatment, ship ballast water treatment, disinfectants and as antifouling agents that prevent mollusks from accumulating in industrial pipes. Biocides are produced in liquid and powder forms, in ready-to-use formulations or as concentrates, and are applied using a variety of techniques. Along with this all others chemicals have a significant market share and play vital role in treating the wastewater.

Based on Water & Wastewater Treatment Equipment, the market is categorized into Membrane Separation, Biological, Sludge Treatment, Disinfection, and Others (Sedimentation and Clarification, Ion exchange, etc.) Membrane separation technology has emerged as a dominant the wastewater treatment market in the United States. This advanced treatment method has gained prominence due to its exceptional efficiency in removing contaminants and producing high-quality treated water. Membrane separation relies on semi-permeable membranes to physically block the passage of particles, microorganisms, and impurities, allowing only clean water molecules to pass through. Membrane systems are compact and are installed in smaller footprints compared to some traditional treatment methods, making them suitable for retrofitting existing treatment plants or for areas with limited space. Biological wastewater treatment equipment is a cornerstone of wastewater treatment infrastructure in the United States and around the world. It offers an effective, cost-efficient, and environmentally friendly approach to treating wastewater, ensuring that discharged water meets regulatory standards and protects the environment. The sludge treatment equipment market within the wastewater treatment sector is a vital component of the overall wastewater management process. Sludge, the residual material generated during wastewater treatment, requires specialized equipment for its efficient and environmentally responsible handling and disposal. This market encompasses a wide range of equipment and technologies designed to dewater, stabilize, and manage sludge effectively. Key elements within the sludge treatment equipment market include sludge dewatering systems, sludge thickening equipment, anaerobic digesters, and thermal drying units.



By Application, the market is segmented into Municipal Applications and Industrial Applications. Wastewater treatment is a critical process in both municipal and industrial applications, with each sector contributing significantly to the overall market. In municipal applications, wastewater treatment is primarily responsible for managing the wastewater generated by households, businesses, and institutions within cities and towns. It indeed holds the largest market share, as it directly impacts public health, environmental protection, and compliance with regulatory standards. Municipal wastewater treatment plants use various technologies to purify water before it is safely discharged into natural water bodies or recycled for non-potable uses. Thus this application holds the largest market share. In industrial settings, wastewater treatment also plays a vital role and commands a substantial market share. Industries produce diverse and often complex effluents containing pollutants and contaminants that must be removed or treated before discharge. Compliance with stringent environmental regulations, reducing environmental impact, and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources are driving factors in the industrial wastewater treatment sector.

Different industries, such as Food and Beverage, Pulp and Paper, Power Generation, Oil and Gas, Healthcare, Chemical and Petrochemical, and Other Industries (Textile Manufacturing, Mining, Automotive Manufacturing, Construction, Metal Extraction, Poultry and Aquaculture, etc.) utilize specialized wastewater treatment systems tailored to their specific processes and effluent characteristics. Wastewater treatment plays a significant role in various industrial sectors, including the food and beverage industry, where it indeed holds a largest market share in 2022. This industry generates a considerable amount of wastewater containing organic matter, nutrients, and potentially harmful substances that must be effectively treated to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to minimize the environmental impact. Wastewater treatment in the food and beverage sector focuses on removing pollutants, organic loads, and potential contaminants, making it an essential process to maintain product quality and safety. Moreover, many food and beverage companies are increasingly adopting sustainable practices, including wastewater reuse and resource recovery, further driving the demand for advanced treatment solutions. In pulp and paper industry, large quantities of water are used for various processes, including pulping, bleaching, and paper production. The resulting wastewater can contain lignin, suspended solids, and chemicals used in the pulping and bleaching processes, making treatment necessary. Effective wastewater treatment not only ensures compliance with environmental regulations but also facilitates water recycling within the industry, reducing water consumption and environmental impact.

Considered in this report:
• Geography: United States
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report:
• United States Water and Wastewater Treatment market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type:
• Water and Wastewater Treatment Equipment
• Water and Wastewater Treatment Chemicals

By Water and Wastewater Treatment Equipment:
• Membrane Separation
• Biological
• Sludge Treatment
• Disinfection
• Others (Sedimentation and Clarification, Ion exchange, etc.)

By Water and Wastewater Treatment Chemicals:
• Coagulants & Flocculants
• Disinfectants & Biocidal Products
• Scale & Corrosion Inhibitors
• Antifoam Chemicals
• pH adjusters and stabilizers
• Others (Oxidizing Agents, Chelating Agents, Odor Control Chemicals, Precipitants, Color Removal Agents, Sequestrants, Biodegradable Surfactants, etc.)

By Application:
• Municipal Applications
• Industrial Applications

By Industrial Application:
• Food and Beverage
• Pulp and Paper
• Power Generation
• Oil and Gas
• Healthcare
• Chemical and Petrochemical
• Other Industries (textile manufacturing, mining, automotive manufacturing, construction, metal extraction, poultry and aquaculture, etc.)

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, and annual reports of companies, analyzing the government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers into regional aspects, tier aspects, age groups, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience:
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to the Water and Wastewater Treatment industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.