EU Implements New Methodology to Monitor Microplastics in Drinking Water

On May 21, 2024, the European Union published Commission Delegated Decision (EU) 2024/1441, Enhancing Water Quality and Safety, which establishes a methodology for measuring microplastics in water intended for human consumption. This complements Directive (EU) 2020/2184, which focuses on the quality of water intended for human consumption. 

Importance of the New Methodology 

Microplastics, which are widespread in the environment, food, and water, pose significant health and environmental risks. Monitoring their presence in drinking water is essential to protect public health. 

Definition of Water for Human Consumption 

Directive (EU) 2020/2184 defines water for human consumption as: 

• All water used for drinking, cooking, and domestic purposes. 

• Water used in food businesses for production and processing. 

Methodology Highlights 

The methodology focuses on: 

• Collecting particles and fibres using a filtration cascade. 

• Use of optical microscopy or chemical mapping for size and shape analysis. 

• Using vibrational micro spectroscopy for compositional identification. 

• Targeting particles from 20 μm to 5 mm and fibres from 20 μm to 15 mm. 

• Concentrations are expressed as microplastics per cubic meter and categorizing based on size, shape, and composition. 

This comprehensive approach ensures accurate detection and categorization of microplastics and reflects the EU’s commitment to understanding and mitigating the impact of microplastics in drinking water. 

For more details, refer to the complete text of Commission Delegated Decision (EU) 2024/1441 here.