Perhaps a hidden marvel, the Aqueduc stands as a testament to human ingenuity. Today, we explore this structure. It shows how engineers solved water distribution challenges.
The Aqueduc demonstrates an inverted siphon aqueduct. Since antiquity, the inverted siphon has been used in aqueducts. It helped them to cross certain valleys. This ingenious method uses pressure. It allows water to flow uphill. It overcomes gravity.
Let’s discuss how Brussels secures its water supply. The Brussels-Capital Region relies on VIVAQUA. This public company manages the production. It also handles the distribution of our drinking water. VIVAQUA supplies 365410 cubic meters of drinking water daily. This water reaches 2.25 million inhabitants. That includes everyone in Brussels.
Where does this water come from? VIVAQUA sources water from 26 catchment sites. These sites tap into both groundwater and surface water. Most of the water originates from the Walloon Region. Yet, some catchment sites lie closer. They are in the Sonian Forest and Bois de la Cambre.
The water is then stored in large reservoirs. Before reaching our homes, the water travels many kilometers. It undergoes strict controls by VIVAQUA’s laboratory. This ensures that only water of irreproachable quality arrives. In Brussels, tap water adheres to over 55 quality criteria. These standards are set by the Regions and Europe. VIVAQUA’s laboratory performs approximately 240000 analyses each year.
Belgium’s water resources are mainly in the Meuse and Scheldt river basins. Both rivers begin in France. They flow into the sea in the Netherlands. While Belgium doesn’t face water scarcity, regional disparities exist. Wallonia provides 55% of the country’s drinking water. However, it only holds 37% of the population. Flanders and Brussels rely on Wallonia for their water. The levels are 40% and 98% respectively.
Now, consider wastewater. VIVAQUA manages the sewer network throughout Brussels. Efficient wastewater management protects the environment. It also protects our water resources. The utility is also responsible for flood control. VIVAQUA manages most of Brussels’ storm water basins. Its engineering office designs new flood control structures.
Water tariffs in Belgium use increasing-block tariffs. This means higher unit prices apply for higher consumption. The number and size of blocks vary. They also differ between regions and service providers.
In Wallonia, there is an increasing-block tariff with four blocks of consumption. The first block covers up to 30 cubic meters per household per year. In Brussels, the increasing-block tariff also has four blocks. The highest block starts at 60 cubic meters per person per year. The first cubic meter costs 3.8 times less than the highest one. A Social Fund for Water exists. It is financed by a tax of 0.01 Euro per cubic meter.
The Aqueduc stands as a reminder. It represents our ongoing need for effective water management. It highlights the delicate balance between resource availability and distribution. As we conclude our visit, think about the journey of water. From its source to our taps. Let us appreciate the systems that bring this essential resource to our homes.