We are proud to support the Blue Dot Network in recognizing the Hwaseong AI Water Treatment Plant in the Republic of Korea as a leading example of sustainable, resilient and innovative infrastructure.
Transforming water management through digital Innovation
Developed by the Korea Water Resources Corporation (K-water), the Hwaseong facility is the world's first large-scale, big-data-based artificial intelligence water treatment plant. By integrating AI, digital twin technology and big-data analytics across the water supply chain, it helps ensure a safe, reliable water supply while adapting to changing environmental conditions and operational demands. Supplying approximately 260,000 m³ of industrial and potable water per day, the facility supports the growing economic regions of Hwaseong and Pyeongtaek while contributing to long-term water security and public health.
Delivering measurable results
The project demonstrates how digital infrastructure can deliver tangible environmental and operational benefits. Since commencing operations, the plant has achieved a 10% reduction in power consumption, a 14% reduction in chemical usage, a 33% reduction in maintenance costs and a 28% improvement in operational efficiency. It has also increased labor efficiency by 78% and reduced risk response times by 75%.
The facility has been recognized by the World Economic Forum as a Global Lighthouse for its leadership in applying advanced digital technologies to critical infrastructure, further demonstrating its role as a model for the future of water management.
Independent certification from SGS
As an approved independent certification body within the Blue Dot Network framework, we conducted a comprehensive assessment of the project against internationally recognized criteria covering sustainability, resilience, transparency, inclusivity and economic efficiency throughout the asset lifecycle.
Certification recognizes the project's alignment with key BDN principles, including promoting sustainable and inclusive economic growth, delivering value for money across the full lifecycle of the asset and building local capacity through the engagement of domestic contractors and SMEs. The project also contributes to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including SDG 6 (Clean water and sanitation), SDG 7 (Affordable and clean energy) and SDG 9 (Industry, innovation and infrastructure).
Building resilience for the future
As climate change increases pressure on water resources worldwide, the Hwaseong AI Water Treatment Plant demonstrates how advanced technologies can strengthen infrastructure resilience while improving sustainability and operational performance. Through AI-enabled monitoring, predictive maintenance and autonomous process control, the facility can adapt to changing water conditions and help safeguard essential services during periods of environmental volatility.
K-water estimates that expanding this model across 43 water treatment plants could generate annual savings of approximately KRW 9.5 billion, demonstrating the scalability and long-term value of AI-enabled infrastructure.
The project reflects the growing role of innovative infrastructure in addressing sustainability challenges, aligning closely with our IMPACT NOW approach to creating positive environmental and societal impact.
By independently validating projects against the Blue Dot Network framework, we help infrastructure owners demonstrate their commitment to quality, transparency and long-term value creation, supporting greater confidence among investors, governments and communities.
Looking to lead by example?
Showcase your commitment to quality, sustainability and global best practices. Begin your path to Blue Dot Network certification by contacting us today.
About Blue Dot Network
The Blue Dot Network (BDN) is a voluntary, private-sector-focused and government-supported certification scheme for infrastructure projects. Open to projects in all countries and across economic sectors, its focus is on projects in emerging economies where quality infrastructure investment is the most needed. BDN aims to help catalyze investment into quality infrastructure by providing a trusted signal to investors and other stakeholders that projects are environmentally and socially sustainable, resilient, inclusive, open and transparent, and economically efficient.
About SGS
SGS is the world’s leading Testing, Inspection and Certification company. We operate a network of over 2,500 laboratories and business facilities across 115 countries, supported by a team of over 100,000 dedicated professionals. With more than 145 years of service excellence, we combine the precision and accuracy that define Swiss companies to help organizations achieve the highest standards of quality, compliance and sustainability.
Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability, enabling businesses to thrive with confidence. We proudly deliver our expert services through the SGS name and a portfolio of trusted specialized brands, including Applied Technical Services, Brightsight, Bluesign and Nutrasource.
SGS is publicly traded on the SIX Swiss Exchange under the ticker symbol SGSN (ISIN CH1256740924, Reuters SGSN.S, Bloomberg SGSN SW).
