PFAS in drinking water: the EU limits that apply from January 2026

The recast EU Drinking Water Directive sets two parametric values for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. "Sum of PFAS" covers 20 selected compounds with a limit of 0.1 micrograms per litre. "PFAS Total", covering all PFAS, has a limit of 0.5 micrograms per litre. Member states may apply either or both, and the values have been binding since 12 January 2026.

PFAS are hard to remove because they are small, persistent and do not break down in conventional treatment. The proven options are adsorption on granular activated carbon, ion exchange resins, and high-pressure membranes. Nanofiltration and reverse osmosis reject most PFAS, including the short-chain compounds that adsorbents struggle with.

A membrane solution needs good pre-treatment. Ultrafiltration ahead of nanofiltration or reverse osmosis removes particles and colloids, protects the high-pressure elements and keeps cleaning intervals long. The concentrate stream then has to be managed, usually by further concentration and destruction or disposal.

Theway Membranes manufactures UF modules and supplies RO and NF elements, and Davey Products builds complete UF and RO plants. VDT Europa can scope a pilot or a full system for utilities and industrial sites in the EU.

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.