For over 160 years, SUEZ has accompanied the great revolutions of our societies, at the service of human progress. From the construction of the Suez Canal through the revolutions of hygiene and public health, urban comfort and currently the resource, our solutions and technologies have accompanied cities and industries to meet the challenges of urban and demographic growth. Through the testimony of employees and archive footage, discover the history of the company.
Our history
160 years of history at the service of human progress
1858: the trade revolution
As soon as the SUEZ canal opens, it revolutionizes world trade. This marks the beginning of the Group’s industrial success and the birth of its name, a synonym of audacity, ambition and innovation.
1880: the hygiene and public health revolution
The industrial revolution leads to rapid development
of cities. To protect people’s hygiene and health, water
and sanitation networks are built over great distances,
providing access to drinking water and wastewater
treatment. A modern waste collection system is also
invented.
1945: the urban comfort revolution
After the Second World War, as big cities and
suburbs grow, inhabitants’ needs increase, calling
for a constant supply of clean water to meet growing
requirements, and collection and treatment of
increasing waste quantities.
1990 – Today: the resource revolution
At the dawn of the 21st century, a new chapter begins
at the Rio Earth Summit. World leaders make the
protection of the earth a priority.
In an exponentially growing world, cities and
industries are seeking new solutions to face resource
scarcity and climate change.
