How BrainSTEM EdTech is Using Virtual Reality to Raise Awareness About Wastewater Management

Making the Invisible Visible

Most wastewater treatment facilities operate underground and behind gated walls, out of sight and out of mind. While these systems are critical to public health and environmental sustainability, their hidden nature often leaves communities unaware of the vital role they play. Recognizing this gap, BrainSTEM EdTech partnered with More2Build to create an innovative Virtual Reality (VR) experience inspired by DC Water’s Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant—the largest of its kind globally.

 The Problem: Out of Sight, Out of Mind

In cities like Washington, D.C., wastewater treatment is a marvel of engineering that keeps drinking water safe and waterways clean. However, because these facilities are located underground, the public often overlooks the complexity and importance of their operations.

DC Water and More2Build recognized the need for a solution that could not only educate the public but also foster appreciation for the infrastructure that protects our environment. BrainSTEM EdTech stepped in with a bold idea: bring these systems to life through immersive VR technology.

The Solution: Wastewater Treatment Inspector VR Learning Experience

The Water Treatment VR Learning Experience is an innovative program that uses virtual reality to make the invisible visible. By recreating sewer systems, treatment plants, and the water management process in an interactive 3D environment, BrainSTEM EdTech has created a powerful tool to engage and educate.

What Makes This Experience Unique

1. Virtual Sewer Tours:
   • Users dive underground to explore how wastewater flows through pipes, is treated, and is ultimately returned to the environment.
2. Town Simulation:
   • A virtual town demonstrates the differences between Combined Sewer Systems (CSS) and Separate Sewer Systems (MS4) during both dry and wet weather conditions.
3. Facility Walkthrough:
   • Users can explore a 3D replica of the Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant, learning how each step in the process ensures clean and safe water.
4. Interactive Learning Modules:
   • The program connects everyday household activities—like flushing toilets or washing dishes—to the larger wastewater management system.

Why Virtual Reality?

Virtual Reality is a transformative tool for training & raising awareness about hidden infrastructure. Here’s why:

• Visibility: VR brings to life underground systems that are otherwise inaccessible.
• Engagement: Interactive environments captivate users, making learning memorable.
• Accessibility: Virtual tours eliminate logistical challenges, allowing anyone to explore complex systems safely.

Impact: Educating and Inspiring Communities, Increased Community Trust, Stakeholder Buy-In

The Water Treatment VR Learning Experience is achieving what traditional outreach methods cannot. Here’s how it’s making an impact:

• Raising Awareness:

By visualizing wastewater systems, users gain a newfound appreciation for the infrastructure that keeps their water safe.

• Fostering Environmental Stewardship:

The experience highlights the role of wastewater management in protecting waterways and ecosystems, inspiring users to adopt sustainable habits.

• Building Community Trust:

Transparency through VR helps water utilities connect with their communities and demonstrate the value of their work.

Applications of the VR Experience

1. Public Education:

Engage residents in understanding how wastewater systems work and their impact on water quality.

2. Utility Tours:

Offer virtual facility tours to students, policymakers, and community groups without disrupting operations.

3. Workforce Training:

Train employees in a safe, realistic environment to improve operational efficiency and safety.