• 28 Oct 2016

The figures are increasing for “H2O”, the International Water Exhibition, which has just concluded in Bologna. The event registered an increase of 10% in the number of visits and also an increase in the number of companies exhibiting. Organized by BolognaFiere, H2O is in its 13th edition and is part of the SAIE platform, the network of events (including also Expotunnel, Ambiente Lavoro (Working Environment), Smart City Conference and SAIE3) that represents the entire production chain for the sector of construction in all of its diverse areas of specialization. Overall “SAIE 2016” concluded with a significant increase in attendance (+10%): over 50,000 visits and around 1000 exhibitors. “H2O 2016” involved 329 exhibitors in an exhibition space of around 15 thousand m2 including 77 conventions and workshops with a total of 430 high profile speakers and visits of foreign buyers from 5 countries (Bosnia Herzegovina, Montenegro, Czech Republic, Serbia and Turkey).

 

During the event the “Prize for Innovation 2016” was awarded. The prize is divided into four categories: software applications and services; pipes and wells; pumps, machines and systems; tools. The prize was awarded to 12 new technological innovations selected from 144 products proposed by 81 exhibiting companies. Also awarded was the “2016 Sustainability Prize” to the University of Perugia and the Turin Polytechnic. Exhibitors and visitors enjoyed the new structure of “H2O 2016”, which followed three themed pathways. “H2O Urban” relating to the management of the civic water supply, processes and sewage disposal; “H2O Industry” for the management of water for industry; and “CH4” relating to the transportation and distribution of natural gas. The intense programme of conventions and workshops also included the section “H2O Academy” dedicated to education and training. There were also three important international events taking place, the conferences of the International Water Association (IWA), the European Water Regulators (WAREG) and the Smart Water Networks Forum (SWANN).

 

“The success of H2O and the SAIE platform,” explained Marco Momoli, Italian commercial director of BolognaFiere, “highlighted the market trends in construction, which is currently seeing the first positive signs of general recovery for the sector. Also for the sector of water we have seen a recovery in terms of investments and, in parallel, the use of innovative technologies and the demand for quality services. The appointment in Bologna has been set for October of 2018 with the 53rd edition of the SAIE platform and the 14th edition of H2O. The entire platform will have a new exhibition concept with a focus on the development of current and future markets, it will be a venue for discussion and debate on an international level and will contribute to encouraging the growth of a new industry for the sector and new professions.”