World of Difference Award

In its eighth year of sponsorship by leading global engineering, consulting and construction company, Black & Veatch, CIWEM's World of Difference Award rewards the leading proponents of the practical application of innovative science and engineering for environmental improvement.

That Luang Marsh is the largest remaining marsh in Vientiane, Laos, and provides a major role in the treatment of the city's domestic and industrial wastewater. However economic and population growth is putting increased pressure on the marsh, leading to a decrease in the ability of the marsh to perform essential ecosystem functions. Increased drainage for unregulated construction, new industrial and domestic wastewater sources, and increased toxic pollutants, have all compromised its ability to treat effluent, reduced stormwater storage capacity and casued a decrease in local plant, bird and fish species.

The WATER project involved training local stakeholders in wetland treatment system design, operation and maintenance and wetland management; designing and constructed six wetland treatment systems to treat both domestic and industrial pollution; and producing plans for large scale wetlands that will treat the majority of the city's wastewater. The demonstration wetlands included a linear wetland treatment system for Beer Lao, one of the largest industries in Vientiane and part owned by Carlsberg, and one designed in the shape of a wetland insect for None Khor Primary School.

Sally Mackenzie, Head of Wetland Functions at Wildfowl & Wetlands Trust, said: "The WATER project focused on using low cost, low energy, sustainable solutions to improve water quality for Vientiane. Using wetland treatment system technology instead of conventional wastewater solutions is not only financially more viable in Laos but can bring a wealth of additional benefits. We have also used designs which will benefit wildlife and provide income for the people of Vientiane who rely directly on the marsh for livelihoods."

As well as receiving a framed certificate and cheque for GBP3,000, WATER will be presented with a specially-commissioned trophy designed by Corey Baldwin, a student at Reigate School of Art, Design and Media. The competition to design the trophy was created by Black & Veatch to encourage students near its Redhill office to consider environmental issues. The trophy will be presented at CIWEM's prestigious Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony on 20th May 2010.

Speaking on behalf of the award's sponsor, Black & Veatch, managing director Matthew Nott said: "This project is a winner because it looks beyond providing a technical fix and addresses the broader needs of the communities who rely on the marsh. This approach to problem solving is at the heart of our business. WATER is about looking at the whole picture and understanding fully the needs of people who need expert assistance; not imposing a solution upon them."