© Marlène Clement
By 2027, all European rivers, streams, and groundwater sources must reach a good ecological status under the EU Water Framework Directive, with a range of projects and measures being implemented in Luxembourg to meet this goal.
In densely populated areas such as Luxembourg City, designated protection zones have been created around water sources to prevent contamination. As groundwater travels toward the springs, it absorbs various substances along the way. While the soil and rock layers provide some natural filtration, that alone is not enough to meet drinking water standards, explained Annick Frising, head of water source quality for the City of Luxembourg.
She noted that the city's treatment plant uses sand and activated carbon filters to remove harmful substances, including pesticides, their residues, and PFAS – also known informally as "forever chemicals" – which are particularly resistant to degradation. Before being stored, the water undergoes another disinfection process and is lightly chlorinated to ensure safety.
However, Brigitte Lambert, head of the groundwater and drinking water unit of the Water Management Agency, stressed that prevention is far more effective and affordable than treatment after contamination. She highlighted that protecting catchment areas remains essential, adding that the key is to identify and manage potential risks early to safeguard water quality at the source rather than relying solely on treatment technologies later.
Lambert also emphasised that every individual can help protect water resources. Every litre saved means less water needs to be extracted and treated. Small daily actions, such as shorter showers, installing water-saving shower heads, or simple flow reducers, can make a significant difference in reducing national consumption, she said.
In Luxembourg, drinking water is sourced roughly half from groundwater and half from surface water. As required by national legislation, the water supply is regularly tested, with around 6,500 analyses carried out each year. According to the EU Clean Drinking Water Index, Luxembourg ranks third among all 27 Member States, with a compliance rate above 99.8%, reflecting the high quality and reliability of its drinking water.
