GIREAU studies sustainable and responsible water management in cities, with a particular focus on the urban water cycle, water consumption in cities, wastewater treatment for reuse, and the integration of water into buildings and the urban basis.

Water is traditionally managed on the basis of systems that are often considered independently, namely rainwater, wastewater, drinking water and water from the natural environment. GIREAU explores how to integrate these four systems into a single cycle, with the aim of ensuring the sustainability of the resource at the lowest possible cost. Closing the urban water cycle and applying a new paradigm for water management requires the development of new technologies and models, but can only be achieved if accompanied by new modes of water governance that meet citizens’ aspirations and do not have a negative impact on their health.

GIREAU’s scientific program is structured around four areas of research: