The use of sensors to detect contaminants in wastewater is not a new concept. Currently, facilities require monitoring of pollution levels such as COD, BOD, and trace metals. Instant identification of viruses in wastewater can narrow down potential outbreak locations, preventing further damage before the virus has a chance to take hold. This type of sensor network will have a lasting positive impact on many communities.

The UK's detection system is being orchestrated by the UK government, in consultation with universities, water companies, and public research bodies. Its aim is to operate similarly to the system used in the Netherlands, led by the RIVM (the national institute for public health). This type of research will be beneficial as it will provide funding for developing new and innovative sensor solutions for monitoring wastewater from residential and industrial locations. But why are these new sensors useful?

The methods wastewater companies use to monitor their supplies for identifying pollution incidents haven't changed in many years. These tried-and-tested processes require a worker to physically extract a sample, store it, and then transport it to a lab for analysis. For some contaminants, this entire process can take up to 10 days. As a result, pollution incidents are often recorded only after they've already impacted the community and the environment. This raises the question: why can't sensors operate remotely? If they could, they would provide continuous monitoring and give wastewater companies the opportunity to identify pollution incidents earlier. The main barriers to adoption are simple: a lack of funding and a lack of willingness to change. However, the challenging COVID-19 situation will likely be the catalyst to begin this shift. IDTechEx predicts that water and wastewater monitoring will reach over £2 billion by 2030. These monitoring sensors will benefit the population and their surrounding environments. Overall, although there are significant upfront costs, IDTechEx's research predicts that the benefits will outweigh these costs.

Continuous monitoring of wastewater systems is common in other industries (such as semiconductor manufacturing) to monitor trace metals. These sensors and technologies could be used in drinking water and wastewater supplies for similar monitoring. Furthermore, wastewater treatment plants that closely monitor their processes can also increase their energy efficiency. Pumps and blowers, for example, can operate at higher power levels only when necessary, based on monitoring data. Introducing sensors in these industries can lead to increased plant efficiency, reduced pollution from contaminants or waste materials, and more. The challenging COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted this as a market that can greatly benefit from collaboration between technology companies and water and wastewater providers.