In a display of international cooperation, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD) Chairman of Finance Marcelino Garcia and executive staff welcomed a distinguished Italian delegation to its Stickney Water Reclamation Plant (WRP) in Cicero on July 1. Against the backdrop of one of the world’s largest wastewater treatment facilities, leaders from both sides gathered to exchange insights, forge partnerships, and explore bold solutions to the environmental challenges of our time.

The visit marked a significant exchange of ideas between international water management leaders. The Italian delegation engaged in a dynamic dialogue with MWRD leadership to explore innovative solutions for protecting the water environment across borders. Discussions focused on a comprehensive range of critical topics shaping the future of water management. These included advanced treatment technologies and innovative approaches to recovering valuable resources from wastewater, as well as maintaining strict environmental compliance and navigating complex regulatory frameworks.

“Our dialogue focused on climate resilience through stormwater mitigation, enforcement practices along regional waterways, and forward-thinking efforts toward carbon neutrality and a circular economy,” said Chairman Garcia. “We had great discussions that will have a lasting impact.”

Following the meeting, the delegation embarked on a guided tour of the Stickney facility, which serves 2.2 million residents across central Chicago and 46 neighboring communities. The MWRD’s seven treatment plants collectively manage wastewater for more than 5.19 million people in 129 municipalities.

The Stickney WRP can treat up to 1.44 billion gallons of water per day, equivalent to filling nearly 2,200 Olympic swimming pools. It also plays a critical role in managing rainfall and preventing flooding through its integration with the region’s deep tunnel network and vast reservoirs.

“We are always excited to host international delegations to share best practices in pursuit of a future of resilience, innovation, and sustainable water management,” said MWRD President Kari K. Steele. “While each region faces its own set of environmental challenges, we’re united by our responsibility to safeguard the world’s most precious resource—water.”

This international visit underscores the power of cooperation and the shared responsibility of governments worldwide to address climate change, resource recovery, and public health protection with urgency and ingenuity.

The Italian delegation toured the MWRD’s phosphorus recovery facility during their Stickney WRP tour. In partnership with Ostara Nutrient Recovery Technologies, the world’s largest nutrient recovery facility was unveiled in 2016. Phosphorus and nitrogen are recovered from the plant’s liquid waste stream and turned into a high value fertilizer, which is marketed and distributed.