 | Joining forces for improved water quality: the INPAR network (Isotopes for improved management of nitrate pollution in aqueous resources) |
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 | Introduction |
European legislation ( 30KB
) on nitrate, water protection and management has been
around for a long time, still nitrate pollution remains an issue. Nitrate is
degrading the quality ( 24KB
) of drinking water and water resources in general
(eutrophication of surface and marine waters).
Isotope data can help to identify nitrate pollution sources, to investigate
the fate of nitrate in the environment and to come up with appropriate
measures to reduce nitrate pollution as shown in numerous
isotope field studies ( 80KB
). Isotope analysis and use of isotope data enables
improved management of nitrate contamination in ground, surface and marine
waters.
| INPAR network |
For various reasons,
isotope methodology ( 126KB
) though proven to be useful – is not always applied. To
make this methodology more accessible across Europe and to share best
practices, the network 'Isotopes for improved management of Nitrate Pollution
in Aqueous Resources (INPAR)' has been created by the European Commission,
Joint Research Centre (JRC) - Institute for Reference Materials and
Measurements (IRMM), in 2006.
| Objectives |
The network aims in particular at promoting the use and development of isotope
techniques as a tool for better water management in relation to nitrate
pollution across Europe by means of multi-disciplinary knowledge exchange (see
figure 1), joint research projects and training activities.
INPAR aims to:
-
share scientific and technical knowledge (both theoretical and practical)
regarding isotope measurements for the better management of water resources
with a special focus on nitrate;
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set up joint research projects;
-
exchange staff and train newcomers in this area in order to make this
methodology becomes more common place in the water management domain;
-
explore, define and communicate the potential of the technique: where can it
help, where not;
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share best practice on how to communicate with water authorities;
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promote the use of this methodology across Europe, via the EU Member States
and the regions.
The network is expected to deliver:
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improved methodology (documented in reports, publications);
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joint projects;
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better trained researchers & staff;
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public events;
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information of its activities on a joint website.
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