Potential of decentralized wastewater treatment for preventing the spread of antibiotic resistance, organic micropollutants, pathogens and viruses (PRESAGE)

Abstract

New approaches are needed to reduce emission of contaminants of emerging concern (CECs). Some sources contribute strongly to such emissions, which has driven the focus of PRESAGE on innovative decentralized wastewater treatment (WWT). An integrated analysis of the behaviour of organic micropollutants (OMPs), antibiotic resistant microorganisms and genes (ARMs/ARGs), pathogens and viruses will be carried out. The contribution of such a complex mixture to the final effluent ecotoxicity will be assessed. The technologies will be validated at 4 demosites treating black and grey water, and effluents from hospitals and an antibiotic industry, in close collaboration with the industrial sector. Experts in the field of advanced WWT, microbiology and ecotoxicology will strongly cooperate and participate in a mobility plan focusing on complementary skills. (AU)