Guimarães became the stage for a national reflection on the major challenges and the future of urban water, hosting the National Wastewater Seminar (SENAG 2026). The event, promoted by the Portuguese Association of Water Distribution and Drainage (APDA), takes place on October 14 and 15, as part of the Guimarães European Green Capital 2026 program.
Under the theme «Reimagining Urban Water», the opening session of SENAG 2026 brought together institutional leaders, managing entities, and specialists at the Centro Cultural Vila Flor. The debate focused on crucial issues for the sector, including adaptation to climate change, infrastructure modernization, and the sustainability of sanitation systems.
Ricardo Araújo, president of the Municipal Chamber of Guimarães, emphasized that the European distinction should translate into concrete benefits for the community, advocating for a people-centered vision of sustainability. "Sustainability only fulfills its purpose when it translates into concrete benefits for the community. It is not enough to have a greener city. We must build a healthier city, better prepared for climate challenges, more efficient in its resource use, and capable of ensuring better living conditions for those who live here and those who visit us," he stated.
The mayor also highlighted the strategic importance of water and sanitation in public policies, emphasizing that preparing territories for the future requires planning, investment, prevention, and cooperation among municipalities, managing entities, regulators, academia, and companies. Araújo pointed out the role of water supply, drainage, and wastewater treatment infrastructure in protecting public health, environmental preservation, and city resilience.
The president of the Municipal Chamber also acknowledged the contribution of VIMÁGUA to the sustainability objectives of Guimarães and Vizela, valuing the work of its professionals.
João Manuel Esteves, Secretary of State for the Environment, praised Guimarães' involvement in sustainability issues, highlighting the sharing of knowledge and best practices to accelerate environmental transformation. He acknowledged the work of VIMÁGUA and the representatives of entities, companies, municipalities, and academia present at the seminar.
Daniel Rodrigues, Chairman of the Board of Directors of VIMÁGUA, emphasized the importance of anticipation and prevention in responding to climate change challenges, highlighting investment in technology to improve infrastructure knowledge and operational efficiency. "Not reacting, but acting is what underlies this plan by the Municipality of Guimarães and VIMÁGUA," he stated, mentioning investments in inspection, network monitoring, and infiltration detection.
José Martins Soares, President of the Board of Directors of APDA, highlighted the progress made in the environmental quality of rivers and coastal areas, but advocated for continued investment in the rehabilitation and modernization of wastewater treatment systems. He pointed to the new Urban Wastewater Directive, expected in late July 2027, as an important milestone.
Wednesday's program included sessions on managing crises during extreme climate events, preparing urban drainage infrastructure, and using artificial intelligence and data to anticipate problems and improve wastewater system operations. SENAG 2026 continues this Thursday, October 15, with a program focused on resource recovery and reuse, carbon emission reduction, and the challenges of financing the water transition.
