The EU-funded intoDBP project released of its third official newsletter, marking a pivotal transition into the project’s final year. As climate change intensifies pressure on global water systems, intoDBP is delivering innovative tools, evidence-based research, and strategic policy recommendations to protect human health and the environment from Disinfection By-products (DBPs).
Advancing Technology and Strategy in Cyprus and Ireland
The project recently concluded its 7th General Assembly in Cyprus, where partners evaluated the progress of the MITO3X® pilot at the Limassol treatment plant. This technology represents a significant leap forward in reducing DBPs for European water operators.
Simultaneously, in Ireland, the Dublin City University (DCU) team hosted the Irish Case Study Board. The findings advocate for a “multi-barrier” approach, emphasizing that protecting source water is just as critical as “end-of-pipe” treatment solutions to ensure long-term water safety.
New Research: Climate Variability and Microplastics
Data-driven insights remain at the core of intoDBP’s mission. A newly published study in ACS ES&T Water analyzes 14 years of data from Barcelona (2010–2024), highlighting how hydroclimatic extremes—such as droughts and heavy rainfall—directly influence trihalomethane levels.
Furthermore, the project has released critical findings on the interaction between microplastics and water disinfection, revealing how these pollutants can alter the formation of DBPs, presenting a dual challenge for modern treatment facilities.
A Call for EU Action
In collaboration with the ZeroPollution4Water Cluster, intoDBP has co-authored a high-level Policy Brief. The document calls for:
- Increased infrastructure investment to handle climate-induced water quality fluctuations.
- Regulatory upgrades to better manage DBP risks.
- Improved public communication to build trust in tap water safety.
Read the full newsletter at this link.
