The European Union has begun implementing a major review of how PFAS are monitored and managed in drinking water, marking an important step in protecting public health and protecting water resources across the EU.
The changes stem from the revised Drinking Water Directive, which introduces EU-wide standards to track and reduce harmful chemical contaminants.
Commenting on this landmark rule, Jessica Roswall, Secretary of State for Environment, Water Resilience and Competitive Circular Economy, said: “PFAS contamination is a growing concern for drinking water across Europe.
“With harmonized restrictions and mandatory monitoring now in place, member states have the rules and tools to rapidly detect and respond to PFAS to protect public health.”
Why are PFAS such a concern?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of man-made chemicals that are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not easily break down in the environment or the human body.
They are widely used in products such as nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, firefighting foam, and food packaging.
Scientific studies have linked long-term exposure to PFAS in drinking water to a variety of health concerns, including liver damage, immune system suppression, effects on child development, and increased risk of certain cancers.
Its persistent nature means that even low concentrations can accumulate over time, making proactive monitoring and prevention important.
Harmonized monitoring across member states
Under the updated regulations, EU member states are now required to monitor PFAS in drinking water using harmonized methods.
This ensures that data is collected consistently across Europe and measured against the newly set EU limits. Countries must also report findings to the European Commission, such as exceedances, pollution incidents, and approved exemptions.
This is the first time that systematic monitoring of PFAS in drinking water has been mandated at EU level. Compared to the previous Directive, the new reporting framework is streamlined and reduces administrative burden, while increasing oversight and transparency.
From law to practice: What will the Directive change?
The revised Drinking Water Directive adopted in 2020 required member states to translate its provisions into national law by January 2023.
Its overarching aim is to align water policy with the EU’s Zero Pollution Action Plan and Water Resilience Strategy and guarantee safer access to drinking water for all Europeans.
If monitoring shows that PFAS levels exceed legal limits, authorities are obligated to act quickly. Measures may include closing contaminated wells, upgrading water treatment systems to remove PFAS, and restricting use of affected water supplies. Importantly, the public must be notified whenever health-based restrictions are violated.
Technical guidance to support compliance
To support consistent implementation, the European Commission published technical guidelines in 2024 outlining approved analytical methods for measuring both “total PFAS” and “total PFAS” in drinking water.
This guidance has been developed in close collaboration with Member States and is based on technical feasibility and socio-economic assessments to help authorities apply the most effective surveillance methods.
Strengthening the right to safe drinking water
By tackling PFAS in drinking water, the EU is directly advancing the core objective of the Water Resilience Strategy: ensuring the right to safe and clean drinking water.
The new rules also demonstrate a broader commitment to tackling new contaminants before they pose an irreversible risk to Europe’s water supplies and public health.
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