Call 01 - single stage (2026) · Developing methods to assess the presence, functions and sensitivity of groundwater ecosystems

Project results are expected to contribute to all of the following expected outcomes: • the knowledge of existing groundwater ecosystems[1] is improved, supporting policymakers and technical experts in assessments of their presence, functions and condition or status, and their role for climate change mitigation; • society benefits from enhanced knowledge and awareness of pollution and overexploitation risks to groundwater ecosystems and the ecosystem services provided by…

The European Environment Agency (EEA)'s report on Europe's state of water (2024)[2] highlighted that 77% of groundwater, which supplies two thirds of the EU's drinking water, is in good chemical status. For groundwater not reaching good chemical status, the report identified nitrates, pesticides and pharmaceuticals among main issues. However, less is known about contaminants of emerging concern, such as perfluorinated substances (e.g. PFAS), microplastics and antimicrobial…