Microplastics in waters: The first accredited laboratory in the Czech Republic at the TGM WRI
Microplastics, defined as particles of synthetic polymers smaller than 5 mm, represent one of the most intensively studied environmental issues of the present day. The increasing research interest in microplastics is also reflected in the legislative sphere. European legislation requires the implementation of microplastics monitoring in drinking water through an amendment to the EU Directive on the quality of water intended for human consumption (Commission Decision 2024/1441). Similar requirements are expected soon for surface waters following the adoption of the relevant Directive of the European Parliament and of the Council amending Directive 2000/60/EC (Water Framework Directive). In response to this context, and with the aim of providing a reliable analytical background, a specialised Laboratory for Microplastics Analysis was established at the Brno branch of the TGM Water Research Institute (TGM WRI), which has been intensively engaged in this field since 2023.