Toolkit for Robust & Adaptable Drinking Water Systems: A Demonstration Case in Polydendri DWTP

The provision of safe drinking water is becoming increasingly challenging due to climate change, emerging pollutants, and aging infrastructure. The revised EU Drinking Water Directive is a step forward in addressing these challenges by adopting a risk assessment and risk management approach. However, the lack of real-time information on emerging contaminants poses a challenge to this approach. The "ToDrinQ" project offers a potential solution to this challenge by developing a Toolkit of modular, innovative solutions that can provide real-time operational awareness and support to operators and designers. The project's small-scale pilot at the Polydendri DWTP will test a compact water treatment system, including a membrane-based biofilm system, and novel hard and soft sensors for microbial and contaminant detection. The project aims to merge big data, AI, and cloud computing with local operator experiences to provide a paradigm shift in drinking water safety. The deployment of an interoperable modular platform for monitoring and risk-based decision-support will further enhance the process for detecting contaminants and monitoring the quality of drinking water. The successful implementation of the "ToDrinQ" project can significantly improve the resilience and adaptability of drinking water supply systems, without expensive infrastructural investments, and help ensure the highest possible standards for drinking water quality.