New report identifies key research priorities for microplastics in water

A new report from the American Water Works Association (AWWA) and the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA) assesses the state of the science on microplastics in water and identifies key research priorities to inform future policy and regulatory decisions.

Microplastics in Water: Assessing the State of the Science, produced in partnership with Arcadis and subject matter experts from the University of Toronto, finds that better defining potential health risks from microplastics and improving the ability to analyze the substances are the two greatest research needs. It emphasizes that the smallest plastic particles – nanoplastics – are particularly difficult to detect and measure and may have greater potential health significance.

The report discusses microplastics in seven topic areas: occurrence, sampling, analysis, treatment, source control, health effects and environmental impacts. It also prioritizes research needs in highest, middle and lowest priority bins.

“Communities throughout North America and beyond are concerned about microplastics in their water,” said AWWA Chief Executive Officer David LaFrance. “We rely on the very best science to help us gauge potential health risks from microplastics, how to measure these substances, and what policy or regulatory approaches keep drinking water safe and healthy. This report provides a clearer picture of what is known about microplastics in water, identifies where important questions remain, and helps focus future research where it can provide the greatest benefit for our communities.”

The report notes that progress in understanding health effects and improving analytical methods will help inform research across other areas, including occurrence and treatment. The research needs are closely connected, with advances in one area often dependent on progress in another.

Microplastics in Water: Assessing the State of the Science is available on AWWA’s report overview page.

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Established in 1881, the American Water Works Association is the largest nonprofit, scientific and educational association dedicated to managing and treating water, the world’s most vital resource. With approximately 50,000 members, AWWA provides solutions to improve public health, protect the environment, strengthen the economy and enhance our quality of life.