KWR at WaterMicro25: Science for Safe Water

A Changing World, A Shared Mission 

The theme of WaterMicro25—Safe Water in a Changing World—reflected the growing challenges posed by climate change, urbanisation, and antimicrobial resistance. With more intense rainfall, prolonged droughts, and increasing pressures on water systems, the need for innovative, science-based solutions has never been greater. With its long-standing expertise in water microbiology and chlorine-free drinking water, the Netherlands provided the perfect backdrop for this global exchange.

KWR Contributions to the Programme 

Nikki van Bel 

Nikki presented two key contributions. In her oral presentation, she discussed quantifying human pathogenic viruses and potential indicator viruses in sewage, and their removal in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). This research is crucial for understanding virus behavior in urban water cycles and improving public health protection. 
In her poster presentation, she focused on the validation and practical application of continuous microbial water quality monitoring in drinking water systems. This work supports the development of real-time monitoring tools that can detect microbial contamination events early and reliably.

Gertjan Medema

As co-chair of the conference, Gertjan led several sessions. With Dave McCarthy (University of Guelph), he hosted the WBES Cluster Event, showcasing innovations in wastewater surveillance for pathogens and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This international workshop highlighted novel sampling and detection techniques that can enhance early warning systems. 
In a side event with Charles Gerba (University of Arizona), Gertjan explored the infectivity of viruses, comparing molecular methods (like PCR) with traditional cell culture techniques. This session emphasized the importance of method selection in risk assessment. 
In another side event with parties involved in the journey towards (accepted) implementation of RT-PCR methods for monitoring in drinking water practice, he presented the implementation of RT-PCR methods for statutory monitoring under the EU Drinking Water Directive. An interactive discussion with the audience took place about the added value, feasibility and limitations of the use of RT-PCR methods for E. coli and intestinal enterococci in drinking water practice, the steps that are needed to obtain regulatory acceptance and the next steps in the development and implementation of these methods. This work bridges the gap between scientific innovation and regulatory practice, enabling faster and more accurate detection of E. coli and enterococci in drinking water. 

Bas van der Zaan 

Bas presented research on using indigenous viruses as indicators for removing pathogenic viruses during soil passage. His team conducted column experiments to compare the transport and log-reduction of native viruses with that of human pathogens. This approach offers a practical and scalable method for evaluating natural purification processes in managed aquifer recharge and riverbank filtration.

Aleida Hommes 

Aleida presented three posters. One focused on the use of indigenous virus markers to safeguard membrane treatment plants, offering a new way to monitor the integrity of advanced filtration systems. 
Her second poster introduced novel real-time sensing technologies for drinking water quality monitoring, which can provide continuous data and early warnings of contamination. 
In her third contribution, she showcased the development of a semi-automated qPCR analyser for on-site detection of fecal contamination in drinking water sources—an important step toward rapid, field-deployable diagnostics.

Marcelle van der Waals

Marcelle delivered a poster pitch on a rapid alternative to the heterotrophic plate count at 22°C (HPC22), a standard method used after repairs in drinking water systems. Her pitch sparked lively discussions about the potential of ATP and enzymatic activity measurements—using tools like the ColiMinder—as faster, more informative alternatives to traditional HPC methods.

Highlights from the Conference 

• Chlorine-Free Drinking Water: A panel led by Patrick Smeets explored the Dutch experience and international interest in transitioning to chlorine-free systems. The discussion emphasized the importance of robust treatment, monitoring, and distribution practices. 
• Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR): Workshops highlighted the need for targeted monitoring of AMR and ARGs in water systems. KWR is piloting methods for ARG removal and contributing to global strategies to mitigate resistance. 
• Bathing Water Quality: Sessions on microbial source tracking provided insights into identifying and managing fecal pollution sources, improving the safety of recreational waters.

Looking Ahead 

WaterMicro25 was more than a scientific conference—it celebrated collaboration, innovation, and impact. KWR is proud to be at the forefront of research that bridges science and practice, ensuring safe water for all in a rapidly changing world.

KWR at WaterMicro25

KWR at WaterMicro25

KWR at WaterMicro25

KWR at WaterMicro25

KWR at WaterMicro25