CCC-2 Highlights Procurement as a Key Upstream Measure at International Water Conference in Berlin

The international conference “The Future of Water in the Changing World: Innovative Solutions Against PFAS and Micropollutants” took place on 19–20 November in Berlin, bringing together more than 150 experts, policymakers, and practitioners working on Europe’s growing chemical pollution challenge. Over two days, the event explored emerging EU regulatory requirements, the latest scientific findings on PFAS and other micropollutants, and innovative solutions for protecting water bodies across Europe and the Baltic Sea region.

Amid presentations on advanced wastewater treatment technologies and the rising costs of removing hazardous substances, Heidrun Fammler (BEF Germany) presented the ChemClimCircle-2 (CCC-2) approach – highlighting sustainable public procurement as a powerful upstream tool for reducing hazardous chemicals before they ever reach wastewater treatment plants. Speaking to water engineers, utilities and environmental authorities, she emphasised that procurement offers a strategic and cost-effective way to prevent harmful substances from entering urban water systems in the first place.

Her intervention offered a timely contrast to discussions about the expensive “fourth treatment stage” increasingly needed to tackle persistent pollutants. By integrating chemical safety, circularity and climate considerations into public purchasing, CCC-2 provides municipalities and regional authorities with practical means to reduce pollution at the source, complementing technological measures downstream.

The conference concluded with a shared recognition that safeguarding Europe’s waters will require both advanced treatment and effective upstream solutions. CCC-2’s contribution underscored how coordinated public procurement can support cleaner water ecosystems and help reduce the chemical pressure on the Baltic Sea.

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