On 12 January 2021, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) presented the revised Drinking Water Directive (DWD). This new regulation aims to harmonize the water consumption legislation within the EU member states.

To prepare the DWD, member state authorities can submit National Positive Lists and other modifications until 12 July 2021. Every starting substance, composition or constituent that meets tap water shall be added to the positive lists.

Later, the positive lists will be evaluated and combined by the European Commission. The implementation of the DWD is expected early in 2025. The main steps are summarized below: