Water pollution and energy sustainability pose critical challenges. Existing chemical methods for removing key priority pollutants (KPPs) from water are costly and energy-intensive, while conventional biological systems partially address these issues. Supported by the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions programme, the NEUTEN project will pioneer advanced catalytic systems that convert KPPs into energy and energy-dense products, such as hydrochar, alongside improving microbial processes for enhanced pollutant removal and energy carrier generation. NEUTEN will also explore the integration of chemical and biological treatments to create self-sustaining wastewater systems. By incorporating AI tools and market analysis, the project will develop eco-friendly, economically viable business models. Training 15 doctoral candidates through a comprehensive interdisciplinary programme, NEUTEN aims to advance wastewater treatment technologies and bolster the EU’s environmental and economic sustainability.