On 4 December 2025, approximately 150 participants attended the ZeroPollution4Water Cluster event held in conjunction with the Water Knowledge Europe Winter Edition 2025 in Brussels. The event highlighted the achievements of the Cluster’s first two years and explored future opportunities for collaboration. Marking a significant milestone, the gathering reflected on the accomplishments of the seven founding projects and welcomed eight new projects poised to continue and expand the Cluster’s mission, especially as the original projects approach their completion over the next twelve months.
The programme began with an overview of the Cluster’s current state, presented by Rui Martins, coordinator of H2OforAll. He showcased the impressive collective achievements of the ZeroPollution4Water Cluster alongside key results from the founding projects— MAR2PROTECT, NINFA, UPWATER, H2OforAll, intoDBP, SafeCREW, and ToDrinQ — all dedicated to advancing zero pollution in drinking water and groundwater.
Subsequent presentations of the eight new projects LIFE PRISTINE, LIFE ELEKTRA, LIFE Cascade, D4RUNOFF, NIAGARA, UniversWater, UrbanM2O and UrbaQuantum introduced new topics beyond drinking and groundwater to the Cluster. A panel discussion with European Commission representatives followed, giving the projects the opportunity to gain first hand insights to the needs and expectations of the European Commission related to zero pollution, water quality and water resilience. The audience also highlighted remaining research gaps and emphasized the continued importance of Horizon Europe funding. The public session concluded with an engaging poster session.
Afterwards, project representatives convened within their respective ZeroPollution4Water Cluster working groups. Incorporating fresh perspectives from the new projects, they revisited and, where necessary, reorganized the working group structure and defined a common roadmap for the coming year. Attendees valued the rare opportunity for in-person interaction, which fostered lively discussions, innovative ideas, and effective brainstorming. This collaborative spirit is set to propel the Cluster’s future endeavors.
Introductory presentation: 01 State of the art of the ZP4WCluster
Presentations of the eight new projects onboarded:
