The IWA Conference on Sludge Management is an international conference focused on sludge management, organized by the Sludge Management Specialist Group (SMSG), one of the specialist groups affiliated with the International Water Association (IWA), with support from IWA Headquarters and other partners.

The main objective of the conference is to share research results and experiences of researchers and engineers from all over the world in this field and to create a platform for technological innovation.

The first conference started in 1997 in Bari, Italy, and has been held 18 times around the world, exchanging information on research and technology for sludge treatment, disposal, and effective utilization. The 18th conference was held in Beijing, China, in May 2024, with the participation of about 300 experts.

The 19th meeting of the Sludge Management Specialist Group (SMSG) will be held in Kyoto, Japan, October 21-24, 2025. This is the first time that this conference will be held in Japan.

The conference will be co-sponsored by the Graduate School of Engineering, Kyoto University, and the Graduate School of Global Environmental Studies, Kyoto University.

Topics related to sludge management, including sludge generation, characterization, stabilization, thickening, digestion, dewatering, thermal treatment, agricultural use, recycling, and final disposal, will be the subject of presentations at this conference. The aim is to present and discuss state-of-the-art knowledge on these topics among experts from around the world, to improve engineering technology, and to contribute to environmental conservation in developed and developing countries. However, in addition to traditional topics, there are an increasing number of issues to be discussed, such as trace hazardous substances, life cycle assessment, climate change, energy issues, and sustainability assessment, and we invite you to discuss these related issues.

In addition, a pre-workshop is scheduled for October 21, 2025 on the topic of promoting the use of sewage sludge for agricultural use. As part of the conference, an exhibition will be held to introduce the products of related companies and institutions.

Objectives

The conference will provide participants from academia, industry, and government agencies with an international forum where they can present their research results and developments in various fields related to sludge management and discuss them with each other.