AquaticPollutants Session at World Water Week 2024
Lars Österlund (GreenWaterTech) and Nanette Zahrtmann (NanoTheC-Aba) emphasized the urgency in tackling AquaticPollutants: “We're far from achieving SDG 6, especially Target 6.3. According to the UN's August 2024 report, 42% of household and 73% of industrial wastewater isn't safely treated.” They also said that contaminants of emerging concern (CECs) like PFAS, microplastics, and nanomaterials remain a challenge: “We need better risk assessment and advanced treatments at WWTPs and point sources.”
Paola Verlicchi (SERPIC) highlighted new technologies from AquaticPollutants projects that target persistent contaminants across wastewater types.
Marcus Grünerwald (GreenWaterTech) noted that these technologies need more development and stakeholder collaboration —including with regulators and civil society— to reach TRL 9 and be implemented in communities.
Jan Gäbler (SERPIC) and Henrik Rasmus Andersen (PRESAGE) shared some important insights on working with end-users as researchers.
After the presentations, there was time for a Q&A. One of the findings here was that AquaticPollutants researchers can guide policy on hard-to-remove CECs. Further, Víctor Matamoros (NATURE) proposed nature-based solutions for cost-effective treatment in low- and middle-income countries. Another focus was that the next generation of engineers and scientists must also master social science skills to communicate solutions effectively, as Ani Vardanyan advised: "Learn by doing" —through conferences, presentations, and moderation.
Thanks to all speakers and the more than 50 participants who joined us!