Sink to River – River to Tap – A review of potential risks from nano-particles & microplastics

UKWIR has carried out the first study of its kind in the UK to develop a robust approach to sampling and detection of microplastic particles in the treated water cycle. This included accurately measuring the presence of microplastic particles in potable (drinking) water, treated wastewater and in the solid residues (sludge) produced by both the water and wastewater treatment processes.

UKWIR commissioned the Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, a world-class research organisation focusing on land and freshwater ecosystems and their interaction with the atmosphere, to undertake this important research study for the water industry.

This research has confirmed that both the water and the wastewater treatment processes effectively remove 99.9% of microplastic particles from the final product i.e. the potable water and treated wastewater. It also demonstrates that a robust process for sample collection and analysis, free from airborne contamination, is vital to ensure accurate results.

For this project, microplastics were defined as particles >25 µm that had been captured on 10 µm filters.

You may view the report via our website by clicking this link.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Our Latest Posts

February 4, 2025

The Institute of Water (IWater) is proud to celebrate its 80th anniversary in 2025, marking eight decades of supporting and developing professionals in the water sector.

Read more

January 30, 2025

The Institute of Water (IWater) is proud to introduce the 2025 Rising Stars, a group of outstanding professionals from across…

Read more

December 19, 2024

After nine years of outstanding service as the Institute of Water’s Vice President Environment, we extend our heartfelt thanks to…

Read more

December 4, 2024

The IWA UK Committee, a sub-committee of the Institute of Water, serves the interests of UK IWA members. With an upcoming restructuring, they are excited to announce a new opportunity for all UK IWA members to apply for a position on the committee.

Read more