Microplastics in drinking water: Europe now has a common way to measure them

Under the recast Drinking Water Directive (EU) 2020/2184, the Commission had to adopt a methodology for measuring microplastics, with a view to adding them to the EU watch list of substances of concern. It did so through Commission Delegated Decision (EU) 2024/1441, prepared by the Joint Research Centre and published in the Official Journal on 21 May 2024.

The method filters a large volume of water, at least 1,000 litres, through a cascade of filters in series so that particles are collected in defined size ranges. Particles are then counted and sized by microscopy, and identified by polymer type with infrared or Raman micro-spectroscopy. A microplastic fibre is defined by length up to 15 mm and a length-to-width ratio greater than 3.

A common method means results from Tallinn, Lisbon and Warsaw can finally be compared. The directive's remaining milestones continue: new parameter values applied from 12 January 2026, and the Commission must report on the threat that microplastics and other emerging contaminants pose to water sources by 12 January 2029.

Treatment already offers a reliable barrier. Ultrafiltration membranes with pores far below a micrometre physically retain plastic particles and fibres, as well as bacteria and turbidity. Theway Membranes manufactures UF modules and Davey Products builds complete UF and RO plants, delivered in the EU through VDT Europa.

Supplied in Europe

In the European Union, Davey Group equipment is supplied, contracted and supported by VDT Europa OÜ in Tallinn, Estonia. Contact contact@vdteuropa.com.

Sources: Directive (EU) 2020/2184; Commission Delegated Decision (EU) 2024/1441; European Commission Joint Research Centre.