About
European DWD-Conference 2026
Drinking water is one of the most important resources in Europe and around the world. High-quality, safe drinking water in sufficient quantities is crucial to public health and the well-being of the population. From the start of 2027, uniform yet far-reaching new hygiene requirements for materials in contact with drinking water will come into force across Europe. The Drinking Water Directive (DWD) – including delegated acts and implementing acts – ensures that water intended for human consumption can be consumed safely, thereby providing a high level of health protection.
The aim of the DWD-Conference is to provide an overview of the minimum hygiene requirements for materials in contact with drinking water in Europe and to help relevant stakeholders gain an understanding of the subject.
The conference will examine current issues with the participation of all relevant stakeholders and provide comprehensive information. Renewed speakers from the following organizations will contribute to the success of the conference:
- The European Commission is responsible for the specific formulation of the legal requirements
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), responsible for the positive lists and their maintenance
- Member States represented by Germany and the Netherlands
- Notified bodies and testing laboratories responsible for ensuring that legal requirements are implemented in practice
- Manufacturers of materials in contact with drinking water, represented by the European Drinking Water Initiative (EDW)
- Water utilities represented by the European Federation of National Associations of Water Services (EurEau)
The conference is aimed at both manufacturers and users of materials intended to come into contact with drinking water, as well as notified bodies, competent authorities and regulatory bodies in Europe.
