In early October, experts from MATE’s Aquaculture and Environmental Safety division participated in the EUSDR PA4 Water Quality Conference held in Budapest. The event focused on the pressing issue of plastics and microplastics in drinking water, addressing challenges from source to tap and aligning with EU directive obligations.

The conference showcased results from various European projects, including those under DRP, DTP, LIFE, and Horizon, with contributions from countries such as Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Italy, and Spain. Discussions explored key topics such as health impacts, nanoplastics, citizen science initiatives, and advanced analytical methods.

Key outcomes included progress toward a harmonised methodology for measuring microplastics in drinking water and enhanced insights into wastewater treatment's role in mitigating plastic pollution. The event also fostered collaboration among policymakers (DG MARE, EU JRC, WHO, ICPDR), practitioners, researchers, and innovative projects.

MATE experts contributed to the final recommendations, leveraging findings from the REPurpose project to shape future actions against microplastic pollution.

For more details and access to the presentations, visit: https://waterquality.danube-region.eu/conference-on-microplastics-in-drinking-water-from-source-to-tap-3-october-budapest/