From analog to digital microbial surveillance
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Sweden Water Research AB |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 500 000 |
| Project duration | November 2024 - May 2025 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Impact Innovation Water Wave Societies - Programme-specific interventions |
| Call | Impact Innovation: Collaboration for Sustainable water for all - a Water Wise Societies programme intervention 2024 |
Purpose and goal
Today, the microbial water quality in our pipelines is monitored using analog methods. This means cultivations on plates where results take a few days and then only give an indication of whether harmful bacteria are present. However, there are new methods that can monitor water quality digitally and provide more precise answers immediately. We want to take the leap from the slow analog to the fast digital when it comes to microbial water quality monitoring and implement the new methods widely.
Expected effects and result
By the end of this feasibility study, we will be group of stakeholders ready to actively implement digital solutions for monitoring, primarily focusing on the microbial quality of drinking water. At that stage, we will have a solid understanding of the research and innovation frontiers in the field, as well as knowledge of how to successfully introduce new technologies in a sector shaped by traditional methods—governed not only by legislation but also by long-established practices.
Planned approach and implementation
1. Identify a) the research front and b) the innovation front for digital methods in microbial drinking water quality monitoring. Two descriptive studies will be conducted. 2. Explore potential future scenarios for microbial water quality control by 2050. What technical, legal, social, and cultural shifts are needed in the industry? Two workshops will be held. 3. Identify stakeholders interested in participating in a follow-up project to transition from words to action.