Breaking: South Korean Delegation Visits Spain’s Potable Water Treatment Station
June 25, 2023 — In a groundbreaking event, a technical delegation from South Korea, comprising four high-level managers, visited Spain’s Potable Water Treatment Station in Mohernando, part of the Water Commonwealth of Sorbe. Their aim was to gain firsthand insights into the operations and water management models applied in Spain.
The delegation, including Chanyeop Park (Manager of the Policy Section), Dooil Kang (Manager of the Planning Section), Yongseung Lee (Manager of the Construction Section), and Yongmi Kim (Manager of the Budget Section), was accompanied by an interpreter and Vice President José Miguel Benítez. This visit aims to gather crucial information on the planning, operation, and maintenance of large-scale hydraulic infrastructure.
Technical Site Visit Overviews
The day commenced with a technical presentation by Marisa Andrés, the quality and environment technician, who walked the delegation through the operational aspects of the water treatment facility. The visit continued with an external tour where the Korean professionals were able to observe various purification stages, including the decanter and the final crystallization process.
The delegation was particularly interested in Spain’s management of flood episodes and socioeconomic impact, knowing that the facility directly employs 45 workers and serves around 400,000 people across 13 population centers.
Cultural Exchange on Water Management
An intriguing cultural exchange took place during the visit, addressing the varying perspectives on drinking water accessibility. While Spain takes tap water for granted, South Korea struggles with potable water due to issues like pipe materials. Delegates expressed interest in PVC pipe solutions that Spain employs, eliminating odors and improving water safety.
Future collaborations andtakeaways
Vice President Benítez reflected on the cultural differences, highlighting the urgency for South Korea to adopt safer water practices. As part of the Water Administration System (MAS), campaigns are ongoing to educate the public on responsible water usage.
The visit underscores the importance of international collaboration in improving water management practices, setting a benchmark for future global initiatives.
Conclusion and Key Takeaways
The visit from the South Korean delegation to Spain’s Potable Water Treatment Station marks a significant step in international water management collaboration. By adopting modern practices and fostering educational campaigns, both nations aim to elevate water safety and efficiency, setting a precedence for future cross-border initiatives.