The PREWAPHARM consortium joined forces at Aquarama 2025 in Leuven, bringing together researchers, healthcare professionals, water experts, and innovators to address one pressing challenge: pharmaceutical pollution across North-West Europe.
Over several sessions, we explored how sustainable pharmacy practices, smart water technologies, and policy innovation can work hand in hand to reduce the impact of medicines on the environment.
At the PREWAPHARM matchmaking workshop, partners and participants exchanged ideas on decentralised solutions for the removal of pharmaceutical residues at small wastewater treatment plants. Real-world cases and promising technologies were shared, highlighting the need for tailored approaches and pilot studies to assess real-life effectiveness.
In parallel, experts discussed source-based reduction at hospitals and the latest regulatory developments — from extended producer responsibility to upcoming European legislation on PFAS and pharmaceuticals. These exchanges underlined the importance of collaboration across sectors: connecting healthcare, research, and water management to turn innovative ideas into practical action.
We thank all participants, speakers, and partners for their inspiring contributions.
Together, we’re building a cleaner, healthier, and more circular water future for North-West Europe.