While conceiving the research programs in close collaboration with the operational and technical departments, the research programs have three purposes:

• anticipating the needs of municipal and industrial customers, and anticipating new regulatory constraints which will have to be met;
• minimizing costs while at the same time improving quality and controlling the impact on the environment and health;
• innovating through the constant use of the latest tailored technology.

By working synergistically with the research and development of Veolia Environnement - no. 1 in the world for environmental services - Veolia Water's research and development benefits from belonging to a global network of 833 top experts.

Veolia Environnement's research and development's brief is to:

• anticipate future needs;
• develop and make available innovative solutions (effective technology and services tailored to the needs of municipal and industrial customers);
• improve the effectiveness of research programs in the different divisions within Veolia Environnement;
• enhance the performance of its businesses

There is also a twofold requirement for the Group's research and development to:

• protect the environment;
• safeguard the health of local communities.