Workshop: Connecting policy insights with case studies experiences

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The ZeroPollution4Water Cluster Workshop, held on June 17th as part of WIE2024, served as a pivotal platform for connecting policymakers and project stakeholders in a collaborative dialogue on evidence-based decision-making in EU water management. This event showcased the Inventory of case studies from ZP4Water Cluster sister projects and presented the Cluster’s first Policy Brief on “Preventing groundwater contamination and securing drinking water quality.”

The workshop brought together scientists and policymakers to explore the intersection of policy development and project practices, drawing from the experiences of the ZP4Water Cluster sister projects and their case studies. Discussions centered on critical issues such as climate change impacts on water resources, the role of innovative technologies including AI in monitoring and treatment, and the challenges of addressing water pollution, with a particular focus on disinfection by-products in drinking water.

Key outcomes of the event included:

1. Integration of Research and Policy Development: Emphasis on embedding policy considerations into research projects from inception, ensuring scientific outcomes are readily applicable to policy needs and align with EU directives.
2. Evidence-Based Decision Making and Future Priorities: Demonstration of how data-driven research informs policy decisions, particularly in groundwater and drinking water management, with identification of key areas for further investigation such as water system uncertainties and long-term contaminant effects.
3. Citizen Engagement and Public Awareness: Importance of involving citizens in scientific processes and policy development, promoting public awareness in water management, and encouraging participation in policy processes and monitoring.
4. Climate Change and Water Quality Management: In-depth discussions on managing groundwater risks and climate change effects on water quality, emphasizing the need for adaptive strategies.
5. Holistic and Balanced Policy Approach: Recognition of the need for directives that incorporate project knowledge and consider not only technological solutions but also social and economic factors, reflecting the complexity of water-related challenges.

In conclusion, the ZeroPollution4Water Cluster Workshop successfully facilitated knowledge sharing and collaborative dialogue, reinforcing the commitment to evidence-based policymaking in water management. The event set a foundation for future innovations and policy developments aimed at ensuring both water quality and quantity in a sustainable and resilient manner.

Presentations can be found here : Presentations