Strategic guidelines for microplastics management in drinking water at the facility level

The MicroDrink project supports drinking water facilities in addressing the emerging challenge of microplastics (MP) in drinking water and preparing for future European regulatory requirements. By strengthening knowledge, monitoring capacities, and management practices across the Danube River Basin, the project contributed to a more coordinated approach to microplastics monitoring and risk management.

Through harmonised sampling and analytical methods, laboratory and institutional capacity building, pilot activities, national consultations, and transnational knowledge exchange, MicroDrink provide practical guidance for water suppliers, laboratories, regulators, and other stakeholders. The project helped to improve understanding of microplastic occurrence in drinking water and supports informed decision-making.

These Strategic Guidelines translate project findings on governance and legislative approaches into practical actions for drinking water facilities. They are aligned with the Drinking Water Directive (EU) 2020/2184 and the Commission Delegated Decision (EU) 2024/1441, which establishes a harmonised methodology for measuring microplastics in water intended for human consumption.

As the EU regulatory framework continues to evolve, drinking water suppliers are operating in a transitional phase where monitoring is required, but binding threshold values and corrective obligations have not yet been defined. In this context, proactive preparation is essential. Facilities are encouraged to strengthen analytical and operational capacities, establish reliable monitoring systems, and integrate microplastics into existing risk-based management approaches.

The guidelines promote the development of laboratory capacities, collection of baseline monitoring data, alignment with EU standards, and the application of a precautionary approach that reflects current scientific uncertainties. They also provide a structured framework for assessing facility readiness, strengthening Water Safety Plans, and improving communication with consumers, regulators, and public health authorities.

When microplastics are detected, facilities should follow a transparent and proportionate response process, including verification of results, optimisation of treatment processes, consideration of upstream pollution prevention measures, and integration of findings into long-term risk management and reporting systems.

By implementing these measures, drinking water facilities can improve preparedness, support future regulatory developments, and contribute to a better understanding of microplastics in drinking water. Ultimately, these efforts will enhance the resilience of drinking water systems and support the protection of public health.