As part of the project "En kartläggning om naturligt organiskt material i vatten" ("A survey of natural organic matter in water"), funded by Svenskt Vatten, a second workshop was held on August 20-21, 2024, at the Bolmen Research Station. The workshop brought together representatives from Norrvatten, Stockholm Water and Wastewater, Sydvatten, Laholmsbukten Water and Wastewater, the Swedish Forest Agency, the National Food Agency, the Water Authority, various municipalities, and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences.
The first part of the workshop consisted of a seminar summarizing the key findings discussed earlier in the year during an academic workshop. Topics included the history and expected development of browning, the future of drinking water processes, and potential adaptations and mitigation measures.
The second part focused on identifying knowledge gaps within the drinking water industry, with discussions on how to ensure applied research in both ecosystem science and process technology. One key area explored was the possibility of setting a threshold value for Total Organic Carbon (TOC) in raw water, as well as the feasibility of various methods and measures to engage stakeholders effectively.
The workshop highlighted the significant need for increased knowledge about browning, particularly in relation to the characteristics of organic material in raw water sources. There is also a demand for more practical experience and data on the effectiveness of mitigation measures to avoid unintended consequences, such as those arising from improper site selection or implementation conditions.
Overall, the workshop reinforced the importance of ongoing research and collaboration in addressing the challenges posed by increasing levels of organic matter in water sources and ensuring the long-term sustainability of drinking water supplies.
A view of the lake Bolmen, venue of the workshop