Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Market

Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Market Size and Share:

The global membrane bioreactor (MBR) market size was valued at USD 4,332 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 8,925.8 Million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 8.4% during 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of around 45.3% in 2024. The market is driven by rising demand for advanced wastewater treatment technologies, especially in urban areas with tightening environmental regulations. Increasing water scarcity, growing industrialization, and rapid urban population growth are encouraging investments in efficient, compact, and cost-effective water recycling systems. Additionally, technological advancements in membrane materials, lower operational costs, and greater process reliability are some of the major factors augmenting the membrane bioreactors (MBR) market share.

The market is experiencing significant growth driven by the increasing need for decentralized wastewater treatment systems in remote and rapidly urbanizing areas. As per industry reports, it is estimated that about 7 billion people will reside in urban areas by 2050. This projected urban shift is expected to place immense pressure on centralized wastewater infrastructure, necessitating the deployment of flexible and scalable alternatives. Decentralized systems, such as membrane bioreactors, offer a viable solution by enabling efficient treatment at or near the point of wastewater generation. Additionally, continual advances in membrane manufacturing are improving operational durability and reduced maintenance costs, making MBRs more accessible to municipalities and industries alike. Moreover, stricter industrial discharge standards across emerging economies are prompting investments in compact and efficient treatment technologies. Also, growth in sectors such as pharmaceuticals and food processing, which generate complex wastewater streams, is supporting market expansion.

In the United States, the membrane bioreactor market is advancing due to rising investments in retrofitting aging wastewater infrastructure with advanced treatment technologies. According to industry reports, Washington’s Department of Ecology's funding programs are centered on current infrastructure improvements and new clean water projects. USD 309 Million has been set aside for 136 projects in 2024 alone, from artificial wetlands for stormwater treatment in Ferndale to stream restoration on the Touchet River close to Prescott. Local towns receive over 90% of this funding, which is disbursed under the Water Quality Combined Funding Program. This sustained investment is creating opportunities for membrane bioreactor deployment, especially in projects requiring high treatment efficiency, space-saving configurations, and long-term sustainability in both urban and rural contexts. Apart from this, the usage of MBRs in military bases, correctional facilities, and universities reflects a growing preference for self-contained, high-efficiency solutions. Increasing regulatory attention on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in wastewater is further heightening the relevance of membrane-based systems.

Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Market Trends:

Growing Demand for Water Treatment Solutions

The increasing global demand for reliable water treatment infrastructure is a primary driver of the market. This can be attributed to the declining freshwater resources and steadily increasing demand for chemical-free and safe drinking water from the residential sector. The UNEP stated that freshwater ecosystems, including rivers, lakes, and aquifers, are degraded in half of the world's countries. River flow has decreased in 402 basins globally, a fivefold increase since 2000, driven by climate change and land use. MBRs offer a combination of biological treatment and membrane filtration, delivering high-quality effluent suitable for reuse in irrigation, cooling systems, and even potable applications in some jurisdictions. The technology is particularly beneficial in space-constrained environments, where conventional activated sludge systems are impractical. Additionally, MBR systems are gaining traction among municipalities and private developers for retrofitting aging sewage treatment facilities, enabling higher throughput without requiring physical expansion. Moreover, governments and utilities in water-stressed countries like India, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa are increasingly adopting MBRs as part of their strategic water reuse plans. This, in turn, is positively impacting the membrane bioreactor (MBR) market outlook.

Rising Environmental Concerns Regarding Efficient Sanitation and Wastewater Disposal

The growing awareness of environmental degradation and public health risks linked to untreated or inadequately treated sewage is resulting in widespread adoption of MBR systems. The UN reported that in 2022, 42% of household wastewater globally was not safely treated before discharge, resulting in 113 billion m³ of untreated wastewater released into the environment. Traditional wastewater treatment methods often fall short in removing micro-pollutants, antibiotics, and endocrine-disrupting compounds, which accumulate in natural water bodies, affecting aquatic ecosystems and drinking water sources. MBRs offer superior contaminant removal efficiency, meeting stringent discharge standards imposed by environmental regulatory agencies. Their ability to achieve low biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and total suspended solids (TSS) levels aligns with evolving global benchmarks for effluent quality. Furthermore, the compact design and minimal sludge production of MBRs reduce the environmental footprint of wastewater facilities. This makes the technology increasingly appealing for use in ecologically sensitive zones and urban local bodies aiming to comply with international sanitation norms.

Innovative Wastewater Management Technologies and Process Integration

Continual technological advancements are one of the emerging membrane bioreactors (MBR) market trends. An industry report reveals that traditional wastewater treatment processes manage 330 billion cubic meters of water annually but contribute 3–4% of global energy use and 300 million tons of carbon emissions. Innovative technologies could help reuse 50 billion cubic meters of water yearly and save 20 TWh of energy. In this context, ongoing advancements such as low-fouling membranes are improving filtration efficiency while reducing maintenance frequency. Simultaneously, energy-optimized aeration systems are being adopted to lower operational power demand. Artificial intelligence (AI) and IoT-based monitoring tools are also integrated to support predictive maintenance, real-time system diagnostics, and optimized process control. These developments are reshaping MBR applications across municipal, industrial, and decentralized settings. Moreover, industrial players, particularly in food processing, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, are leveraging these integrated systems to comply with zero-liquid-discharge mandates and circular economy goals. This trend reflects a broader movement toward digitalized and modular water treatment solutions that are adaptable, scalable, and capable of supporting decentralized water management strategies in both developed and emerging markets.

Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global membrane bioreactor (MBR) market, along with forecasts at the global, regional, and country levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on system configuration, membrane type, and application.

Analysis by System Configuration:

• Submerged
• Side Stream

Submerged leads the market with around 66.5% of market share in 2024 driven by its extensive usage for municipal and industrial wastewater treatment. Direct immersion of membranes within the bioreactor tank in submerged MBR systems facilitates easy solid-liquid separation with reduced energy demands for sludge handling. Submerged configuration is a much-desired layout due to its compact space requirement, ease of operation, and cost savings in large-scale operation. Submerged MBRs are also characterized by high effluent quality, which is appropriate for water reuse purposes, particularly in water-scarce areas. Their capacity for high mixed liquor suspended solids (MLSS) concentrations improves biomass retention and biological treatment efficiency. These features have contributed to massive uptake worldwide, particularly in Asia Pacific and Europe. Greater regulatory attention to recycling wastewater and tougher discharge standards will continue to enhance the demand for submerged systems over the next few years.

Analysis by Membrane Type:

• Hollow Fiber
• Flat Sheet
• Multi-Tubular
• Others

Hollow fiber leads the market with around 61.5% of market share in 2024. This type of membrane is known for its high surface area-to-volume ratio, minimal space requirements, and efficient filtration capabilities. These membranes are used extensively in municipal and industrial MBR applications because they can process large quantities of wastewater with predictable quality output. Their porous structure, consisting of many fine fibers, allows for effective solid-liquid separation with resistance to fouling across a range of operating conditions. Hollow fiber membranes are especially popular in submerged MBR operation, where they help minimize operational footprint and energy requirements. Their cost-effectiveness, durability, and flexibility make them a choice of preference for big wastewater treatment projects, particularly in areas with water scarcity and strict discharge regulations. With the increasing importance of water reuse worldwide, the use of hollow fiber membranes is likely to increase steadily, further establishing their importance in the market.

Analysis by Application:

• Municipal Waste-Water Treatment
• Industrial Waste-Water Treatment
• Others

Municipal waste-water treatment leads the market with around 47.6% of market share in 2024. The growth of this segment is influenced by rising urbanization, population expansion, and expanding demand for effective sewage treatment technology. Municipal authorities extensively use MBR technology as it can deliver high-quality effluent in compliance with stringent regulatory requirements for discharge and reuse. The small footprint of MBR systems allows them to be applied in highly populated urban environments where space limitation precludes the use of traditional treatment techniques. The combination of biological treatment and membrane filtration in one step increases the efficiency of treatment and minimizes sludge production. Municipal governments also favor MBRs due to their reliability, scalability, and ability to retrofit existing facilities. With increased global attention on sustainable water use and wastewater reuse, particularly in water-shortage areas, the role of municipal wastewater treatment in fueling the membrane bioreactor (MBR) market growth remains increasingly robust.

Regional Analysis:

• North America
  • United States
  • Canada
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • Japan
  • India
  • South Korea
  • Australia
  • Indonesia
  • Others
• Europe
  • Germany
  • France
  • United Kingdom
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Russia
  • Others
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Others
• Middle East and Africa

In 2024, Asia Pacific accounted for the largest market share of over 45.3%, driven by fast-paced urbanization, industrial growth, and growing environmental issues in nations such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea. The area is seeing increased investment in wastewater infrastructure to meet the increasing need for clean water and meet more stringent environmental regulations. Advanced treatment technologies are encouraged by governments, with MBRs becoming a top choice among them due to their space-saving design and capacity to provide high-quality effluent for reuse. In China, for example, many large-scale MBR-based municipal projects have been initiated as part of national water pollution control schemes. India, on the other hand, is investing in the modernization of sewage treatment under programs like the Namami Gange program. Additionally, increasing demand for decentralized and high-performance treatment systems in municipal and industrial applications further underscores Asia Pacific's leadership position in propelling the global growth of the MBR market.

Key Regional Takeaways:

United States Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Market Analysis

In 2024, the United States holds a substantial share of around 76.30% of the market share in North America. The market is primarily driven by increasing industrialization and urbanization, raising the demand for efficient wastewater treatment solutions. In line with this, stricter government regulations on water quality and wastewater disposal, pushing industries to adopt advanced treatment technologies, are propelling market growth. The rising need for sustainable water management, particularly in water-scarce regions, is fueling the market expansion. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) National Water Availability Assessment identified that nearly 30 million people live in areas with limited surface water supplies relative to water use, highlighting significant water scarcity concerns. Furthermore, MBR’s increasing ability to treat high volumes of wastewater with reduced operational costs is a major attraction for businesses in the market. The continual advancements in membrane technology are enhancing the efficiency and lifespan of MBR systems in the market. According to membrane bioreactor (MBR) market report, the rapid integration of MBR with other treatment methods, such as reverse osmosis, is augmenting its market popularity. The growing environmental awareness and the need for green solutions are encouraging widespread product adoption. Moreover, the increasing use of MBR in municipal and industrial applications is creating lucrative market opportunities.

Europe Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Market Analysis

The market in Europe is experiencing growth due to the growing demand for wastewater treatment in industrial sectors, such as food and beverage, pharmaceuticals, and textiles. Similarly, increasing government investments in sustainable water management solutions are contributing to the heightened adoption of advanced MBR technologies. The push towards decentralized water treatment systems in rural and remote areas is expanding the market scope. Furthermore, the growing ability of MBR systems to produce high-quality treated water for reuse driving their popularity in water-scarce regions, is impelling the market. The European Environment Agency (EEA) reported that about 38% of EU citizens experienced water scarcity in 2019. It is anticipated that half of Europe's river basins would experience water stress and scarcity by 2030. Additionally, just 2.4% of the EU's yearly treatment of approximately 40,000 million m³ of wastewater is further treated for reuse. The reduction in energy consumption and operational costs associated with MBR systems, making them a cost-effective choice, are stimulating market appeal. Additionally, the growing trend of water recycling in urban areas is significantly benefiting the market. Besides this, stringent European Union regulations on wastewater discharge and water quality are further strengthening the market demand.

Asia Pacific Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Market Analysis

The Asia Pacific market is advancing, attributed to rapid urbanization in emerging economies, increasing the demand for effective wastewater treatment systems. In accordance with this, the rising population and industrialization that put significant pressure on existing water resources, are accelerating the higher adoption of MBR technologies. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) reported that over 75% of Asia is water insecure, with countries housing more than 90% of the region's population already facing an imminent water crisis. Furthermore, favorable government initiatives and regulatory frameworks promoting sustainable water management practices are contributing to market growth. The heightened awareness of environmental sustainability and resource conservation is encouraging the shift towards advanced treatment solutions in the market. Moreover, the increasing need for water reuse in the agriculture and manufacturing sectors is providing an impetus to the market. The ADB also stated that agriculture is the largest water consumer in Asia, using 70% of the region's water resources for food production.

Latin America Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Market Analysis

In Latin America, the market is majorly propelled by the increasing industrialization in sectors such as mining and food processing. In addition to this, growing urbanization, demanding advanced water management solutions, is fostering expansion in the market. According to the UNDP, Latin America and the Caribbean have experienced rapid urbanization, making it one of the world’s most urbanized regions. Currently, 82% of the population lives in urban areas, significantly higher than the global average of 58%. Similarly, stricter environmental regulations on wastewater discharge, encouraging the uptake of MBR technology, are impelling development of the market. Apart from this, the rising demand for water recycling and reuse, particularly in agriculture and industry, requiring high-quality treated water for various applications, is expanding the market reach.

Middle East and Africa Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Market Analysis

The market in the Middle East and Africa is experiencing growth due to the heightened water scarcity in the region. Furthermore, rapid industrial growth, particularly in the oil, gas, and manufacturing sectors, increasing the need for advanced wastewater management, is supporting market growth. Additionally, increasing governmental investments in sustainable infrastructure and water reuse programs are strengthening market demand. As such, in 2024, Saudi Arabia announced a USD 4 Billion investment in 96 projects to enhance treated water reuse across agriculture, urban, and industrial sectors. The initiative is part of the National Water Strategy, aiming to reuse 70% of treated water by 2030. Besides this, the growing focus on environmental sustainability and reduced ecological footprints, encouraging industries to adopt more efficient, eco-friendly water treatment solutions, is positively influencing the market.

Competitive Landscape:

The market is characterized by intense competition among established players and new entrants striving to develop advanced, cost-effective technologies. The market competition centers around innovation in membrane durability, fouling resistance, and energy efficiency. Modular and compact system designs have gained traction, especially in decentralized and space-constrained installations. Players compete by offering integrated solutions that combine biological treatment with membrane filtration, targeting municipal and industrial sectors alike. The push for sustainable infrastructure is further elevating research and development (R&D) investments, prompting technological collaborations and licensing strategies. According to membrane bioreactor (MBR) market forecast, the membrane bioreactor market is expected to witness steady growth due to rising global investments in wastewater recycling infrastructure and the increasing adoption of advanced treatment technologies across municipal and industrial sectors Moreover, players aim to expand their geographical reach by securing long-term contracts and forming strategic partnerships with utilities and construction firms. Pricing, after-sales service, and system scalability remain key differentiators, especially as users prioritize lifecycle cost and ease of operation in procurement decisions.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the membrane bioreactor (MBR) market with detailed profiles of all major companies, including:

• ADI Systems
• Alfa Laval
• Aquatech International Corporation
• Asahi Kasei
• Bioprocessh2o LLC
• Culligan
• Evoqua Water Technologies LLC
• GE Water & Process Technologies
• GLV Groups
• Huber SE
• Koch Membrane Systems Inc.
• Kubota Corporation
• Mitsubishi Rayon Co. Ltd.
• Suez
• Toray Industries Inc.
• CITIC Envirotech Ltd.
• Veolia Water
• Wehrle

Latest News and Developments:

• March 2025: Sumitomo Electric received its largest-ever order for PTFE POREFLON membrane modules for Jakarta’s Sewage Improvement Project. The MBR-based plant will reportedly treat 240,000m³/day, serving 1.24 million people. The modules offer 30% savings in space and energy, supporting Indonesia’s efforts to improve urban wastewater management.
• March 2025: Florida awarded Vero Beach USD 11.3 Million toward a new wastewater treatment plant near the airport. The facility will use membrane bioreactor and biological nutrient removal technologies to improve water quality and protect the Indian River Lagoon, Florida’s most biodiverse estuary.
• February 2025: xAI and CERAFILTEC partnered to build a ceramic membrane bioreactor (MBR) for wastewater reuse, supporting cooling at xAI's supercomputing data center in Memphis. The project, set for completion in 2025, aims to conserve drinking water, reduce environmental impact, and set sustainability benchmarks.
• January 2025: VA Tech WABAG secured a USD 14 Million, seven-year O&M contract for managing the Industrial Wastewater Treatment Plant at Bahrain’s BAPCO refinery. Using MBR technology, the plant treats 4,400 gallons per minute.
• December 2024: LG Water Solutions introduced its QuantumFlux™ Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) membranes at the IDRA World Congress in Abu Dhabi. These membranes, crafted using advanced Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) chemistry and the thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) process, offer enhanced chemical and mechanical durability.
• October 2024: Newterra announced the delivery of an innovative wastewater reuse system for a Canadian potato processing facility expansion. The system, set for completion in 2025, aims to treat 1.58 Million gallons of wastewater daily, using MBR, GAC, and RO technologies to significantly reduce water consumption and support sustainability.
• May 2024: CERAFILTEC unveiled its FLEXX-CAP at IFAT 2024. The new innovation improves membrane performance in MBR systems through engineered micro-movements, improving flux rates and reducing operational costs.
• May 2024: CERAFILTEC secured four MBR projects across Italy, Mexico, the UAE, and Africa, totaling 13.7 Million liters per day (MLD). The projects, using CERAFILTEC’s ceramic flat membrane technology, replace polymeric membranes, offering greater durability, reduced maintenance, and lower total cost of ownership.

Membrane Bioreactor (MBR) Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the membrane bioreactor (MBR) market from 2019-2033.
• The membrane bioreactor (MBR) market research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the global market.
• The study maps the leading, as well as the fastest-growing, regional markets. It further enables stakeholders to identify the key country-level markets within each region.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the membrane bioreactor (MBR) industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.