Kompetenzzentrum Wasser Berlin (KWB) is a non-profit research and consultancy organisation based in Berlin, Germany, focused on the urban water cycle and the management of water resources in cities. Founded in 2001, KWB brings together applied research, technical advice and innovation to address practical challenges in water management, from climate change and water crises to digitalisation, sector coupling and urbanisation.
The organisation works at the intersection of science, public administration and practice. Its stated mission is to develop scientifically grounded, practical solutions for sustainable water management and to share knowledge with partners in Germany and abroad. KWB’s work covers several research fields, including groundwater, hydroinformatics, stormwater and surface waters, treatment processes, and smart city and infrastructure topics. It also offers consulting services, including on water reuse and quaternary treatment for targeted micropollutant removal.
KWB has built a profile around urban water management and circular approaches to water use. Among its recent visible activities are its role in the EU Green Deal project PROMISCES, which examined how to detect and reduce persistent chemicals such as PFAS, and its work on the WaterMan project, which explores how water reuse can be integrated into climate-resilient urban water systems. The organisation also highlights a newly established research group, “Water & Risk,” reflecting its focus on risk-aware water management under changing environmental conditions.
KWB operates as an independent partner for municipalities, utilities, research institutions and other stakeholders. Its work is especially relevant to cities dealing with heavy rainfall, drought, pollution and infrastructure pressures.