Reducing the water footprint, reusing water
Natural Systems Utilities (NSU) was acquired by Nijhuis on January 16, 2024. NSU is a leader in distributed water reclamation and reuse innovation, currently operating over 400 systems across the United States, including the largest base of onsite reuse and natural treatment systems. NSU’s approach offers clients fully integrated and cost-effective solutions that incorporate award-winning innovations in system design. With over 40 years of experience, NSU has developed the unique capability to structure a full range of design, build, operations, and ownership project solutions. Their reputation is built on best-in-class execution capability and long-term shared-value partnerships with the people and communities they serve.
The innovative Domino District Non-Potable Water Reuse Project, a groundbreaking initiative developed by NSU in collaboration with Two Trees Management Company, is transforming water sustainability in Brooklyn, NY. Located on the former industrial grounds of the historic Domino Sugar Factory, the project integrates a comprehensive water reuse system into a mixed-use development comprising five buildings. These buildings will collectively supply wastewater to an advanced treatment facility strategically positioned beneath the site's park. The reclaimed water will be repurposed for non-potable uses, including toilet flushing, cooling tower supply, and landscape irrigation.
This pioneering project is designed to significantly ease the burden on New York City’s potable water system, conserving up to 200,000 gallons of drinkable water daily. In addition, by channeling surplus treated water directly into the East River, the project will reduce the volume of wastewater entering the city’s combined sewer systems and treatment facilities. The district-scale system aims to enhance sewer capacity, decrease combined sewer overflows (CSOs), and contribute to energy efficiency and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Through its cutting-edge design and environmental benefits, the Domino District initiative sets a new standard for sustainable urban water management. The non-potable water reuse system will operate as follows:
1. Alternate source supply is collected form the 11-acre property by diverting sewer flows from existing infrastructure;
2. Water is purified using membrane bioreactors, a proven treatment technology based on filtration and biological processes, with ultraviolet disinfection and ozone.
3. High quality recycled water is diverted for non-potable use (e.g., toilet flushing, cooling tower makeup, and irrigation.) Other projects in NYC are also using recycled water for cold water laundry units.
Domino district non-potable water reuse project flow schematic
Online biological monitoring
NSU deployed two automated analyzers that take samples of the treated effluent from the reuse systems. The units are analyzing an ATP signal indicative of the overall concentration of microorganisms in the treated water. Correlating this signal to concentrations of Fecal Coliform or other contaminants gives us real time monitoring without the need to wait for lengthy laboratory tests. Fast results allow us to better monitor our systems, track trends, and catch issues earlier.
Heat recovery
Recognizing the growing emphasis on energy efficiency in modern construction, NSU has taken proactive steps to minimize the carbon footprint of its water reuse systems. By harnessing the thermal energy naturally present in wastewater generated from activities such as cooking, showering, hand washing, and laundry, NSU uses this valuable heat source to preheat boiler feed water. The process employs a combination of heat exchangers and heat pumps, significantly lowering the energy demand of traditional boiler systems. In many cases, this innovative approach has been shown to achieve net energy-neutral or even net energy-positive water reuse systems.
These advanced energy-saving techniques are strategically designed to reduce the total cost of ownership for water reuse solutions, delivering a sustainable, in-building system that offers clear financial benefits. By integrating these technologies, developers gain a future-ready infrastructure that not only supports environmental responsibility but also generates a measurable return on investment, aligning economic and ecological priorities in modern urban development.
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For more information, please contact our water champion Rick Petrosino: rpetrosino@NSUWater.com