IDAEA joins the new Advisory Committee of Experts on Reclaimed Water, promoted by MITECO

• IDAEA contributes its expertise in water contaminants, as well as in the reuse and management of reclaimed water

   

• The researcher Sílvia Díaz-Cruz, the only representative from CSIC, will contribute to the development of safe and sustainable strategies

The Regional Minister for Ecological Transition, Industry, and Trade, Belarmina Díaz, and researcher Sílvia Díaz-Cruz (both in the centre) with representatives from MITECO and the entities involved in the establishment of the Committee of Experts on Reclaimed Water. | Principality of Asturias

The Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA-CSIC) plays a key role in the recently established Advisory Committee of Experts on Reclaimed Water, promoted by the Directorate-General for Water of the Ministry for the Ecological Transition and Demographic Challenge (MITECO). IDAEA researcher Sílvia Díaz-Cruz is the only representative from CSIC in this working group, which aims to facilitate the implementation of the new Water Reuse Regulation (Royal Decree 1085/2024).

This Committee of Experts aims to develop pilot risk management plans for reclaimed water across different uses, covering both urban and industrial waters. Created on 28 February in Asturias, the group consists of 18 specialists from public and private entities, as well as representatives from regional and national administrations. Asturias has been selected for the adaptation of a specific case, in collaboration with the Directorate-General for Water of the Principality.

From her position in the Committee, Sílvia Díaz will contribute her expertise in emerging contaminants and reclaimed wastewater.

“My work will focus on defining water reuse systems based on their specific applications, particularly in industrial processes. I will also identify the risks associated with the production, supply, and use of reclaimed water, as well as design measures to ensure its environmental safety, human health, and animal health,” explains Sílvia Díaz.

IDAEA-CSIC has extensive experience in water contamination research and strategies for water reclamation. Among Dr Díaz-Cruz’s projects are the recently completed ROUSSEAU, MARadentro, and RESTORA, as well as ongoing projects Life-REMAR and ConMimo. Additionally, the institute is preparing a new initiative on water reclamation that will further advance knowledge and solutions in this field.

The creation of this Committee of Experts marks a milestone in the effective implementation of water reuse in Spain. Thanks to collaboration between administrations, businesses, and the scientific community, a reference framework for reclaimed water management will be established, ensuring its technical feasibility, environmental safety, and long-term sustainability.