Abstract:
A major drawback in the present industrial system is that the industries are directly
discharging industrial effluent to nearest waterbodies in a linear way. Even though, a
few of industries have considered reusing treated and untreated wastewater in their
industrial premises, it can be further extended towards ‘exchange’ among the multiple
industries under the concept of Industrial Symbiosis (IS). Initiating IS-based treated
wastewater exchange networks is a novel approach to Sri Lankan industries and there
is a lack of a study on potentials and barriers of implementing the concept. Hence, this
research aimed to investigate the potentials and barriers for exchanging treated
wastewater among industries. In order to achieve the aim, 16 semi-structed interviews
were conducted with industry experts in the field of Industrial Water Management (IWM)
to collect the data. Code-based content analysis technique was used to analyse the data
by applying QSR NVivo.12 software. Findings revealed geographical proximity of
industries, willingness of industries to engage in water exchange and industry level
water management initiatives as major potentials for initiating water exchange
networks. Lack of expected water quality for industrial needs, outdated technologies
used in water management and lack of expertise and awareness were identified as major
barriers. Accordingly, strategies, such as introducing national policy enhancements,
ensuring cultural adaptation, enhancing technology & infrastructure, and empowering
research & development, were proposed to overcome the identified barriers to ensure a
successful implementation of treated wastewater exchange networks targeting the socioeconomic
development of the country
