The MicroDrink Knowledge Base is now live!

We are proud to announce the launch of the MicroDrink Knowledge Base – an open-access platform that consolidates and shares knowledge on microplastics (MP) in drinking water resources across the Danube River Basin.

Available at https://microdrink.wordpress.com and integrated into the main MicroDrink project website: https://interreg-danube.eu/projects/microdrink.

Developed to overcome fragmentation in MP monitoring and management, the Knowledge Base brings together sampling protocols, analytical methods, laboratory capacities, instruments, legislation, and ongoing projects into one comprehensive resource. It supports scientists, policymakers, water utilities, NGOs, and other stakeholders with reliable, harmonized information and promotes cross-border cooperation in the Danube Region.

The platform is organized into six interlinked sections:
📌 Sampling Methods
📌 Analytical Methods
📌 Instruments
📌 Projects
📌 Legislation & Guidelines
📌 Laboratories

Each section offers multilingual data sheets and invites users to submit new information, ensuring that the Knowledge Base remains dynamic and up to date. The section on Sampling and Analytical Methods describes protocols for collection and identification of MPs, including preparation steps, instruments used, and performance characteristics. Instruments are documented with specifications, supplier information, cost estimates, and detection limits. Projects highlight monitoring initiatives and mitigation efforts across the Danube Region, while Legislation & Guidelines provide summaries of national and regional frameworks governing MP monitoring and control. The Laboratories section offers a directory of institutions with capacity to conduct advanced MP analysis.

By publishing this resource openly, the MicroDrink project fosters standardization, knowledge exchange, and coordinated action toward reducing microplastics in drinking water — contributing to both the EU Strategy for the Danube Region (EUSDR) and the Circular Economy Action Plan.