A new peer-reviewed scientific publication produced within the EU-funded intoDBP project examines how climate and hydrological variability—including drought conditions and extreme flow/volume events—can affect trihalomethanes (THMs) in finished drinking water in Barcelona (Spain).
Published on 25 November 2025 in ACS ES&T Water, the study, “Impact of Climate and Hydrological Variability on Drinking Water Production and Trihalomethane Levels: A Case Study in Barcelona, Spain (2010–2024)”, analyses long-term monitoring data from two drinking water treatment plants serving the Barcelona metropolitan area: one river-based (Llobregat) and one reservoir-based (Ter).
Why this matters
Surface-water utilities across Europe are increasingly challenged by prolonged droughts and heavy rainfall events, which can alter source-water quality and treatment conditions. Disinfection is essential for microbiological safety, but it can also lead to the formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs) such as THMs, which are regulated due to potential health risks. This research helps strengthen evidence on how hydroclimatic extremes may shape chemical water quality outcomes in real operating conditions.
Key insights from the Barcelona case study (2010–2024)
Using advanced statistical modelling, the researchers evaluated how temperature, river flow/reservoir levels, and drought/wetness indicators relate to THM patterns at the two plants. The study reports moderate effects overall, and points to the importance of climate-resilient water management strategies—including operational flexibility and treatment configurations—in buffering water quality during extremes.
Supporting Europe’s Zero Pollution ambition
The publication contributes to intoDBP’s mission to develop and validate innovative tools and strategies that help water utilities minimise DBP risks while maintaining effective disinfection—supporting European goals for safer water and pollution prevention.
Read the full publication here.
