EU Mandates Pharma Firms to Fund Wastewater Cleanup

New EU legislation requires pharmaceutical and cosmetic companies to cover 80% of enhanced wastewater treatment costs.

Pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries will bear the majority of costs for removing micropollutants from wastewater.
The legislation aims to reduce environmental impact by ensuring stricter monitoring of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, viruses, and microplastics.
EU countries are also tasked with promoting the reuse of treated wastewater, especially in areas facing water scarcity.
Industry groups express concern over potential drug shortages and increased costs for essential medicines.
Critics argue that the burden should be shared across more sectors contributing to water pollution, not just pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.