Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market Growth, Share, Size, Trends and Forecast (2025 - 2031)
By Service Type;
Design & Engineering Consulting, Building & Installation, Operation & Process Control, Maintenance & Repair, and Others.By Treatment Method;
Filtration, Disinfection, Desalination, and Testing.By End-User;
Power Generation, Oil & Gas, Chemical & Pharmaceutical, Pulp & Paper, Metals & Mining, and Others.By Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031).Introduction
Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market (USD Million), 2021 - 2031
In the year 2024, the Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market was valued at USD 26,420.22 million. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 40,253.91 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.2%.
The Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market plays a critical role in managing wastewater produced by various industrial processes. As industries around the world expand and adopt more complex production techniques, the volume of wastewater generated continues to grow. This wastewater, often containing harmful chemicals, metals, and organic matter, requires specialized treatment to prevent pollution and adhere to environmental regulations. The industrial wastewater treatment service market is driven by stringent government regulations, increasing environmental awareness, and the need for industries to adopt sustainable practices. Companies across sectors such as manufacturing, chemicals, oil and gas, and food processing are increasingly investing in wastewater treatment technologies to comply with discharge standards and reduce their environmental impact.
The market encompasses a wide range of services designed to treat industrial wastewater, including physical, chemical, and biological treatment processes. Companies offering these services utilize advanced technologies such as filtration, membrane processes, chemical treatments, and bioreactors to remove pollutants from wastewater. As industries focus on resource recovery, there is also a growing emphasis on systems that not only treat wastewater but also enable the reuse of water within industrial processes. The development of technologies such as zero-liquid discharge (ZLD) systems and advanced oxidation processes is helping industries further minimize water consumption and manage wastewater more effectively, driving the demand for industrial wastewater treatment services.
Geographically, the industrial wastewater treatment service market is experiencing growth across various regions, with North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific being the dominant markets. North America and Europe have well-established infrastructure and stringent environmental regulations, driving the demand for advanced wastewater treatment solutions. In contrast, Asia Pacific, with its rapid industrialization and growing environmental concerns, is emerging as a key market for wastewater treatment services. The Middle East and Africa, along with Latin America, are also witnessing increasing investments in wastewater treatment as industries in these regions seek to address water scarcity and environmental challenges. The global market for industrial wastewater treatment services is expected to expand significantly over the next decade, driven by technological advancements, stricter regulations, and the growing focus on sustainability.
Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market Recent Developments
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In December 2023, Pentair introduced a new range of water filtration equipment for wastewater treatment in heavy industries, focusing on chemical reuse and regulatory compliance.
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In April 2021, Xylem launched a modular wastewater treatment system designed for industrial plants, enhancing flexibility and reducing energy consumption for chemical and textile industries.
Segment Analysis
The Service Type segmentation focuses on the different types of services provided for industrial wastewater treatment, including consulting, design and engineering, operation and maintenance, and others. These services are tailored to meet the specific needs of various industries, helping businesses comply with environmental regulations and optimize wastewater management processes. Companies in the market offer specialized expertise in designing treatment plants, ensuring their operations run efficiently, and providing maintenance and operational support to enhance performance and reduce downtime. The demand for service types that emphasize sustainability and resource recovery is expected to grow as industries look for ways to minimize water usage and reduce operational costs.
In terms of Treatment Method, the market is divided into several key technologies such as physical treatment, chemical treatment, biological treatment, and advanced treatment methods. Each treatment method is suited to specific types of wastewater generated by different industries. For example, physical treatment methods like filtration and sedimentation are used for removing solid particles, while chemical treatments address dissolved pollutants. Biological treatments, such as activated sludge processes, utilize microorganisms to break down organic matter. Advanced methods, including membrane bioreactors and reverse osmosis, are employed for more stringent treatment requirements, especially in sectors like pharmaceuticals and food processing. These treatment methods are critical to ensuring industries meet local and international environmental standards.
The End-User segmentation includes industries that generate significant amounts of wastewater and rely on treatment services, such as chemicals, oil and gas, food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing. Each industry has distinct requirements for wastewater treatment due to the different contaminants present in their wastewater streams. For example, the oil and gas industry requires specialized chemical treatments for the removal of oils and emulsions, while the food and beverage industry may focus on removing organic matter and suspended solids. As industrial sectors continue to grow globally, the demand for tailored wastewater treatment services is expected to rise, promoting more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solutions.
Lastly, the market is analyzed geographically with regions such as North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and Latin America. Each region is experiencing varying levels of demand for industrial wastewater treatment services based on industrial growth, regulatory frameworks, and environmental concerns. North America and Europe lead the market due to their stringent environmental regulations and mature infrastructure. Asia Pacific, with rapid industrialization, is projected to see significant growth, while regions like the Middle East and Africa and Latin America are also catching up as industries in these areas look to tackle water scarcity and meet international standards. The geographic trends provide insight into the global distribution of industrial wastewater treatment demand and the opportunities for growth in different regions.
Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Segment Analysis
In this report, the Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market has been segmented by Service Type, Treatment Method, End-User, and Geography.
Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market, Segmentation by Service Type
The Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market has been segmented by Service Type into Design & Engineering Consulting, Building & Installation, Operation & Process Control, Maintenance & Repair and Others.
The Design & Engineering Consulting service involves providing expert advice and designing customized wastewater treatment systems that cater to the specific requirements of industrial operations. These services are crucial in the early stages of wastewater management, ensuring that the systems are designed efficiently to meet environmental standards while optimizing resource use. Consulting firms work closely with industries to develop innovative, cost-effective treatment solutions and provide guidance on the most suitable treatment methods based on the type of wastewater generated.
Building & Installation services are focused on the physical construction and installation of wastewater treatment plants and systems. This service is essential for ensuring that treatment plants are built to scale, with the necessary infrastructure to handle wastewater volumes effectively. The installation phase involves integrating the appropriate treatment technologies, including filtration systems, chemical dosing units, and biological reactors, depending on the specific needs of the industry. Proper installation is vital for ensuring that the wastewater treatment process runs smoothly and remains compliant with local and international regulations. These services often involve a team of engineers and technicians who oversee the construction and installation phases.
Operation & Process Control services are aimed at optimizing the day-to-day management of wastewater treatment systems. These services ensure that the treatment plants operate efficiently, meeting performance standards while managing costs. Through continuous monitoring, real-time data analysis, and process adjustments, companies offering this service help maintain optimal conditions for wastewater treatment. This service type often includes the use of advanced software and technologies to control processes such as chemical dosing, filtration, and sludge management. Additionally, Maintenance & Repair services are essential to ensure that the treatment systems remain in peak operating condition. Regular maintenance helps prevent downtime and extends the life of the equipment, reducing the risk of system failures and ensuring that the wastewater treatment process continues uninterrupted. Companies often provide routine inspections, part replacements, and troubleshooting services as part of their maintenance packages.
Finally, the Others category includes additional services that support industrial wastewater management, such as waste disposal, regulatory compliance consulting, and training programs for staff. These services help industries stay compliant with changing environmental regulations, ensure the safe disposal of by-products, and improve operational efficiency through staff education and awareness. As environmental concerns continue to grow, the demand for comprehensive, multi-faceted service offerings is expected to rise across industries.
Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market, Segmentation by Treatment Method
The Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market has been segmented by Treatment Method into Filtration, Disinfection, Desalination and Testing.
Filtration is one of the most common methods used in industrial wastewater treatment. It involves the removal of suspended solids and particulates from the water through various types of filters, such as sand filters, membrane filters, and activated carbon filters. This method is particularly effective in removing large debris, sediments, and organic matter from wastewater, ensuring that the water is clarified and ready for further treatment. Filtration is widely used in industries such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and manufacturing, where wastewater often contains high concentrations of suspended solids.
Disinfection is another crucial treatment method used to kill or deactivate harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and protozoa, which can be present in industrial wastewater. Common disinfection methods include chlorine treatment, ultraviolet (UV) light, and ozone treatment. These methods are essential for ensuring that treated wastewater is safe to discharge into natural water bodies or reuse within industrial processes. Disinfection is particularly important in industries like pharmaceuticals, food processing, and textiles, where the presence of pathogens can have significant public health implications. UV disinfection, for example, is favored for its environmentally friendly nature, as it does not introduce chemicals into the water.
Desalination is a treatment method used to remove salts and minerals from water, making it suitable for reuse or discharge. This process is often employed when the wastewater contains high levels of salinity, which can occur in industries like oil and gas, and textiles. Techniques such as reverse osmosis and electrodialysis are commonly used in desalination, helping to reduce the salinity of water to safe levels. Desalination is becoming increasingly important in regions facing water scarcity or in industries where freshwater sources are limited. As industries seek to reuse water and reduce their environmental footprint, desalination is gaining traction as a vital component of wastewater treatment systems.
Testing is an integral part of the wastewater treatment process, ensuring that treated water meets regulatory standards before being discharged or reused. Various testing methods are used to assess the quality of the treated wastewater, including tests for chemical oxygen demand (COD), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), pH levels, heavy metals, and other contaminants. Regular testing is essential for maintaining compliance with environmental regulations and ensuring that wastewater treatment processes are functioning as intended. This service is critical across all industries, especially those with stringent discharge standards, such as the chemical, pharmaceutical, and automotive sectors. Testing also helps in optimizing treatment processes by identifying areas for improvement and ensuring that any potential issues are addressed proactively.
Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market, Segmentation by End-User
The Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market has been segmented by End-User into Power Generation, Oil & Gas, Chemical & Pharmaceutical, Pulp & Paper, Metals & Mining and Others.
In the Power Generation industry, wastewater treatment plays a crucial role in cooling systems and the management of water used in electricity generation processes. Power plants, especially thermal and nuclear facilities, discharge large volumes of wastewater containing suspended solids, chemicals, and heat. Treatment services in this sector focus on managing and recycling water, ensuring that it meets environmental standards before being released back into the environment or reused in the facility. These services help power generation plants reduce water consumption and minimize their environmental impact, while complying with stringent regulations.
The Oil & Gas industry also represents a major end-user in the industrial wastewater treatment market. This sector produces wastewater that contains a mix of hydrocarbons, salts, chemicals, and other contaminants. Treatment services in this industry are essential for treating produced water, refining wastewater, and managing water used during drilling and extraction processes. Techniques such as filtration, chemical treatment, and desalination are commonly employed to remove oil, chemicals, and suspended solids from wastewater, making it safe for disposal or reuse. With the increasing focus on environmental sustainability, the oil and gas industry is investing heavily in advanced wastewater treatment solutions to minimize its ecological footprint and reduce the discharge of pollutants into the environment.
In the Chemical & Pharmaceutical industries, wastewater treatment is necessary to address the complex and often hazardous waste generated from chemical production processes, including solvents, acids, and heavy metals. These industries require specialized treatment methods to handle the wide variety of contaminants found in their effluent. Treatment services ensure that wastewater is treated to meet regulatory standards before discharge or reuse, while also mitigating the risks of pollution and contamination. The Pulp & Paper industry generates large volumes of wastewater containing organic matter, lignin, and other chemicals from the paper-making process. Treatment services are essential for reducing the biological oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the wastewater, ensuring that the discharge does not harm aquatic ecosystems.
The Metals & Mining industry is another significant end-user of industrial wastewater treatment services. Mining operations generate wastewater containing heavy metals, acids, and suspended solids from extraction, processing, and metal refinement activities. Effective treatment of this wastewater is essential to protect surrounding ecosystems and meet environmental regulations. Technologies such as chemical precipitation, filtration, and reverse osmosis are often employed to remove contaminants and ensure that water can be safely reused or discharged. In addition to these key industries, the Others category includes a wide range of sectors such as textiles, food and beverage, automotive, and more. These industries also require wastewater treatment services to manage the wastewater generated during their manufacturing processes, ensuring compliance with environmental standards and improving sustainability practices.
Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions; North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa and Latin America.
Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market Share (%), by Geographical Region, 2024
North America is a prominent region in the market, characterized by its strong industrial base and stringent environmental regulations. The United States and Canada are major contributors to the market, where industries such as power generation, oil and gas, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals require advanced wastewater treatment services to comply with federal and state-level environmental laws. The increasing emphasis on sustainable water management practices, coupled with significant investments in wastewater treatment infrastructure, drives the demand for these services across the region.
In Europe, wastewater treatment services are also in high demand due to the region's commitment to environmental sustainability and stringent European Union (EU) regulations regarding water quality. Countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are significant players in the market, with a focus on reducing industrial pollution and improving water reuse and recycling. The European market is driven by advancements in treatment technologies, including membrane filtration and chemical treatment, as industries like chemical manufacturing, paper production, and food processing continue to grow. The EU's Green Deal and water management strategies are likely to further accelerate the adoption of wastewater treatment services across the region over the forecast period.
Asia Pacific is expected to experience the highest growth in the industrial wastewater treatment service market during the forecast period. This is due to rapid industrialization, population growth, and increasing urbanization in countries such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea. As industries such as power generation, textiles, and chemical manufacturing expand, there is a growing need for efficient wastewater treatment solutions to handle the rising volume of industrial effluent. Additionally, governments in the Asia Pacific region are tightening environmental regulations, driving the demand for advanced treatment services. The region's market growth is also fueled by increasing investments in infrastructure, technological advancements, and the rising awareness about water scarcity and pollution.
The Middle East and Africa region, while smaller in comparison to other regions, is witnessing steady demand for industrial wastewater treatment services, particularly in the oil and gas, mining, and petrochemical sectors. Countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and South Africa are major contributors to the market, where water scarcity issues are prompting industries to adopt more sustainable wastewater management practices. In these regions, desalination and advanced filtration technologies are crucial to meet the water demands of growing industrial sectors. Additionally, increased regulatory pressure for environmental protection is driving the demand for wastewater treatment solutions in the region.
In Latin America, countries like Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina are witnessing an uptick in demand for industrial wastewater treatment services, driven by expanding industries such as mining, chemicals, and food processing. The region's focus on sustainable water management and improving environmental compliance is expected to support market growth. Latin America's industrial growth, along with initiatives for better water conservation, will drive the adoption of advanced wastewater treatment technologies. Over the forecast period, the region is likely to see an increase in investments in wastewater infrastructure and technological advancements, helping to meet growing industrial needs while ensuring environmental sustainability.
Market Trends
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Stringent environmental regulations
- Increasing industrialization and urbanization
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Growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly wastewater treatment solutions - The growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly wastewater treatment solutions is being driven by increasing environmental awareness and the need to meet stringent regulations. Industries across the globe are under mounting pressure to reduce their environmental footprint, and wastewater treatment plays a crucial role in achieving sustainability goals. Traditional treatment methods often involve the use of harmful chemicals and high energy consumption, making them less favorable in today's environmentally conscious market. As a result, industries are seeking more efficient, sustainable solutions that reduce harmful emissions, conserve energy, and minimize the production of hazardous byproducts, thus aligning with global sustainability trends.
Technological advancements in wastewater treatment are enabling more eco-friendly solutions, such as biological treatment, advanced filtration, and membrane processes. These technologies focus on treating wastewater without the need for harmful chemicals, making them safer for the environment and communities. Furthermore, the rise of water recycling and reuse technologies allows industries to treat and reuse wastewater, reducing their reliance on freshwater resources. As the global population grows and water scarcity becomes a pressing concern, such solutions are becoming essential in sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, and energy. This demand for eco-friendly treatment options is also leading to innovations in waste-to-energy systems, where organic waste in wastewater is converted into valuable resources, such as biogas, further supporting sustainability goals.
Government regulations and corporate sustainability initiatives are further fueling the demand for eco-friendly wastewater treatment solutions. Many regions have introduced stricter wastewater discharge standards, requiring industries to adopt advanced treatment methods to comply with environmental laws. At the same time, companies are increasingly prioritizing sustainable practices as part of their corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies. The pressure to adhere to these regulations, coupled with the growing importance of environmental impact in business operations, is driving industries to invest in cleaner, more efficient wastewater treatment technologies. As a result, the market for sustainable wastewater treatment solutions continues to grow, with significant opportunities for innovation, investment, and industry collaboration.
Restraints
- High capital and operational costs
- Lack of awareness and technical expertise in some regions
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Regulatory and compliance challenges - Regulatory and compliance challenges in the industrial wastewater treatment market stem from the complex and often fragmented nature of environmental laws across regions. Different countries and even local jurisdictions may have varying regulations governing wastewater treatment, discharge limits, and waste disposal practices. These differences can create confusion and increase compliance costs for companies operating in multiple regions. The complexity of these regulations also makes it challenging for industries to keep up-to-date with changes, which can lead to inadvertent violations and costly fines. Moreover, inconsistent enforcement of regulations in some regions can further complicate the compliance landscape, making it difficult for businesses to determine which standards they must meet.
In addition to navigating multiple and often conflicting regulations, industries are required to invest in advanced technologies and infrastructure to meet increasingly stringent environmental standards. The high capital and operational costs associated with upgrading or maintaining wastewater treatment facilities can be a significant barrier, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These businesses may struggle to afford the necessary treatment equipment, monitoring systems, and compliance staff, placing them at a competitive disadvantage. Moreover, the need for continuous monitoring and reporting to ensure compliance adds an ongoing financial burden, diverting resources away from other operational needs and limiting growth opportunities.
Finally, regulatory and compliance challenges are further exacerbated by the growing demand for water recycling and reuse. As water scarcity becomes a global concern, industries are expected to implement more sustainable water management practices, including the reuse of treated wastewater. However, regulatory frameworks governing water reuse are still evolving in many regions, creating uncertainty for businesses that need clear guidelines to implement such practices. In some cases, outdated or inconsistent regulations regarding water reuse and treatment can delay the adoption of these solutions, slowing the progress toward more sustainable and efficient water management. Therefore, harmonizing regulations and providing clear guidance on emerging practices like water reuse are essential to overcoming these challenges and fostering the growth of eco-friendly wastewater treatment solutions.
Opportunities
- Technological advancements in wastewater treatment processes
- Growth in emerging markets
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Adoption of circular economy practices and water reuse solutions - The adoption of circular economy practices in industrial wastewater treatment is gaining momentum as businesses and governments alike recognize the need to minimize waste and optimize resource usage. A circular economy focuses on the continual use of resources by extending product life cycles, reducing waste, and ensuring that materials are reused and recycled. In the context of wastewater treatment, this means not only treating water for discharge but also finding ways to reclaim and reuse it within industrial processes. By implementing closed-loop systems, industries can reduce their reliance on freshwater sources, cut operational costs, and contribute to overall sustainability goals, making circular economy practices an increasingly attractive option.
Water reuse solutions play a central role in promoting circular economy practices, especially in water-scarce regions. As freshwater resources become more limited, industries are turning to water recycling as a means to reduce consumption and increase efficiency. Advanced treatment technologies, such as membrane filtration, reverse osmosis, and biological treatment systems, enable wastewater to be treated to a high standard and reused for various industrial applications, including cooling, cleaning, and even production processes. This not only lowers the demand for fresh water but also minimizes the volume of wastewater generated, contributing to both environmental conservation and cost reduction. Additionally, water reuse aligns with the growing emphasis on environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance, offering businesses a proactive approach to meeting stricter environmental standards.
The adoption of circular economy principles and water reuse solutions also presents significant opportunities for innovation and collaboration across industries. Many companies are investing in new technologies and partnerships to improve water recovery efficiency, turning wastewater into a valuable resource rather than a waste product. In addition, governments are increasingly incentivizing water reuse initiatives by offering subsidies, grants, and regulatory support to encourage industries to adopt these practices. As the market for recycled water grows, there is also potential for the development of new business models focused on water management services, creating a ripple effect that drives the adoption of circular economy practices in other areas of industrial operations. Overall, the integration of circular economy practices and water reuse solutions is essential for industries to meet sustainability targets while addressing the challenges of water scarcity and environmental degradation.
Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market include :
- Veolia
- SUEZ
- Xylem
- Ecolab
- Thermax Group
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Service Type
- Market Snapshot, By Treatment Method
- Market Snapshot, By End-User
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Stringent environmental regulations
- Increasing industrialization and urbanization
- Growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly wastewater treatment solutions
- Restraints
- High capital and operational costs
- Lack of awareness and technical expertise in some regions
- Regulatory and compliance challenges
- Opportunities
- Technological advancements in wastewater treatment processes
- Growth in emerging markets
- Adoption of circular economy practices and water reuse solutions
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market, By Service Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Design & Engineering Consulting
- Building & Installation
- Operation & Process Control
- Maintenance & Repair
- Others
- Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market, By Treatment Method, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Filtration
- Disinfection
- Desalination
- Testing
- Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market, By End-User, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Power Generation
- Oil & Gas
- Chemical & Pharmaceutical
- Pulp & Paper
- Metals & Mining
- Others
- Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Global Industrial Wastewater Treatment Service Market, By Service Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Veolia
- SUEZ
- Xylem
- Ecolab
- Thermax Group
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market