‘Chemical sciences are key to predicting the effect of climate change on global, national and regional water availability and quality, so as to inform adaptation and infrastructure planning,’ said Richard Allan, speaking on behalf of EuChemS to the GLOBE EU group of Members of the European Parliament.

Hosted by its President, Anders Wijkman MEP, the meeting at the European Parliament on 10 September heard from Peter Gammelltoft, DG Environment, who illustrated climate change issues underpinning the Commission’s thinking in the implementation phase of the Water Framework Directive and preparation for a White Paper on adaptation to climate change.

Richard Allan, Chief Scientist at Scottish Water, presented the EuChemS report Sustainable Chemistry: the role of the chemical sciences which lists eight challenges for the chemical sciences. Developing advanced water treatment technologies, widening the adoption of the principles green chemistry and designing chemicals that are highly effective, reusable and recyclable are some of the key areas addressed in the report.

Partnerships with industry will be essential in helping EU government bodies to find solutions and David Russell presented a Dow Europe project for reusing waste water. Luis Oro, President Elect, and Evelyn McEwan, EuChemS General Secretary, also attended the meeting.

EuChemS Publication – Sustainable Water Report
May 2008 – The role of chemical sciences May 2008