As an associate member representing the European Sealing Association (ESA), we had the pleasure of attending the recent EDW Plenary Meeting in Brussels on 20 November 2025. The meeting was of high relevance and provided valuable insights into ongoing initiatives supporting the implementation of the Drinking Water Directive (EU) 2020/2184.
EDW’s commitment to safe and harmonised drinking water standards
European Drinking Water (EDW) continues to fully support the objectives of the recast Drinking Water Directive, particularly Article 11, which aims to ensure high hygienic standards for all products in contact with drinking water across the European Union. Harmonised rules among Member States will strengthen public health protection, consumer confidence, and the functioning of the internal market.
Fit4DW database project
Mr Kinnen and Mr van der Heide presented the “Fit4DW” materials database project. This initiative represents a significant opportunity for the industry to reduce costs and time during product certification. For more information, please contact info@Fit4DW.com.
Meeting with the DG Environment Cabinet
EDW Chair Volker Meyer reported that the meeting with the DG Environment Cabinet was held in a constructive and positive atmosphere. The DG ENV representatives listened attentively to EDW’s concerns and invited the association to propose concrete solutions.
Lars Neveling presented a draft strategy outlining EDW’s main concerns and proposed remedies. Addressing these will require amendments in both the primary and secondary legislation, as well as at the technical level.
Main EDW concerns:
- Conformity Procedure for Site-Built Structures:
Current conformity modules (B/C and B/D) apply only to factory-made products. EDW will propose the inclusion of a procedure for on-site applied materials in CDR 2024/370. - Extension of Implementation Timelines:
Short implementation timelines pose certification challenges. EDW advocates a phased approach — voluntary EU certification by 2027, with national rules remaining valid until 2032. - Mutual Recognition of National Assessments:
To promote EU-wide market access, EDW supports mutual acceptance of substances approved by one member state by others. - Corrections to the European Positive List (EUPL):
EDW calls for mechanisms to ensure timely updates and corrections to the EUPL. - Harmonisation of Material Testing:
Further work is needed to align testing procedures and ensure consistent results across laboratories. - Clarification on Ion Exchangers and Membranes:
A legal interpretation under Articles 11 and 12 is still pending. Depending on the Commission’s outcome, EDW will advocate for either a DWD amendment or a targeted change to CID 2024/368.
EDW strategy and timeline
EDW’s strategic roadmap focuses on six priority areas that integrate actions on both primary and secondary legislation.
Next steps include:
- Continued engagement with DG ENV and the European Commission’s Cabinet
- Outreach through EDW events, workshops, and cooperation with partner associations
- Assignment of dedicated action owners for each key topic
Supporting documents
The document previously referred to as the Guidance Document (developed under the leadership of T. Rapp) is now titled the Supporting Document.
The final version was submitted to DG Environment on 14 November 2025. It will next be reviewed by the Drinking Water Expert Group (DWEG) for endorsement and subsequently published on both the DG Environment website and CIRCABC.
Working Groups – products
The Industry Implementation Guide is being finalised with a practical, product-oriented focus. It will include real-world examples, flow diagrams, and audit preparation guidance. Publication is planned for early 2026 following plenary approval.
Next steps:
- Follow-up on conformity assessment, harmonisation, and EUPL updates
- Strengthened coordination with national authorities and testing laboratories
- Preparation of the 2026 work programme
These initiatives are coordinated through the EDW platform, supported by 35 associations — including the European Sealing Association (ESA) — and numerous companies representing the full value chain: from raw materials (e.g., chemicals) to final products (e.g., pipes, valves), and covering all drinking water system applications from treatment to public and domestic distribution across the EU.
We extend our sincere thanks to the entire EDW team — Volker Meyer, Lars Neveling, Ilari Aho, and Makiko Yada — for their dedication and ongoing support.
Sandy Van den Broeck,
ESG Director, ESA