By Kumiko Oguma, Ph.D., Professor, Department of Urban Engineering, The University of Tokyo
The 2025 IUVA Asia-Pacific Regional Symposium, co-hosted by the Environmental Engineering Society of Singapore (EESS), the International Ultraviolet Association (IUVA), the Centre for Water Research (CWR) at the National University of Singapore (NUS), China UV Association (CUVA) and Water Industry Division, and China Civil Engineering Association (CCEA), took place on July 7-8, 2025, at NUS.
A key highlight of the event was a series of oral presentation sessions covering a broad spectrum of ultraviolet (UV) technologies. These sessions addressed key innovations in UV disinfection, including next-generation Far UV-C and blue light systems, mercury-free excimer lamps and advancements in UV LEDs, with a particular emphasis on scalability, disinfection byproducts and energy efficiency. In-depth discussions also explored the application of UV-based advanced oxidation processes (UV-AOPs) in water reuse and micropollutant removal, along with the role of UV technologies in optimizing public health protection. Additionally, the program highlighted cutting-edge research on radical generation, pollutant degradation mechanisms and process optimization, providing a comprehensive view of UV technologies in both environmental and health contexts.
In addition to the oral presentations, the symposium also showcased a diversity of applied research through poster presentations. The topics covered included innovative applications of Far UV-C for disinfection and micropollutant removal, as well as UV and UV-C LED control systems aimed at enhancing water treatment and removal of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs). Other studies highlighted advanced photocatalytic and photoelectrocatalytic methods for degrading emerging pollutants, such as Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), and explored the integration of UV LEDs into treatment systems. These contributions reflected a strong focus on improving system performance, addressing emerging contaminants and advancing treatment technologies for water and wastewater systems.
Participants also had the opportunity to tour the Keppel Marina East Desalination Plant (KMEDP), Singapore’s first dual-mode desalination facility capable of treating both seawater and reservoir water. Notably, KMEDP integrates sustainable features such as rainwater harvesting and a rooftop recreational green space, demonstrating how urban infrastructure can be both functional and environmentally conscious. This was followed by a guided tour of the Sustainable Singapore Gallery at the Marina Barrage, where participants gained insight into Singapore’s water journey and the innovative solutions implemented for effective water management.
Overall, the symposium served as a dynamic platform for showcasing the latest UV research and applications. By bringing together academics, engineers and industry professionals from around the world, the event fostered meaningful exchanges of ideas and encouraged interdisciplinary collaboration. It highlighted the critical role of UV technologies in tackling emerging water and environmental challenges through innovation, scientific advancement and international cooperation.