The challenges of the chemical-pharmaceutical and cosmetics industry in light of the new urban wastewater regulations

The approval of Directive (EU) 2024/3019 on Urban Wastewater Treatment (UWWT) marks a key shift in European water policy and in the regulation of emerging contaminants linked to sectors such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. Its transposition before 2027 will require advanced treatment processes, greater energy efficiency, health surveillance, and enhanced analytical control. This new framework poses major technical, regulatory, and economic challenges for both urban water cycle operators and industry, particularly due to the implementation of the extended producer responsibility principle. In response to the uncertainties surrounding its application and management, ADECAGUA is organizing, within the framework of Expoquimia 2026, a technical conference to analyse the Directive, its sectoral implications, and the associated technological and management challenges, while fostering dialogue among public authorities, the scientific community, water operators, and industry.

The conference is aimed at:

• Environmental and sustainability managers from industry

• Urban water cycle operators

• Engineering and technology companies

• Public administrations

• Professionals from the water sector and environmental regulation