The EUROTOX Congress in Athens took place on September 14–17, 2025 and focused on the theme “Toxicology addresses society’s real-life risks for sustainable health and well-being.” The event will emphasize scientific breakthroughs, interdisciplinary collaboration, and emerging technologies in toxicology, highlighting public health safety and environmental sustainability.
Peter A. Behnisch, Biodetection Systems BDS attended the Congress on behalf of SafeCREW.
BDS work in aims to advance the implementation of non-animal methods (NAM) for toxicological testing, particularly in relation to compounds affecting the water cycle. During the EUROTOX Congress, BDS engaged with a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from utilities, chemical producers, academia, and policy makers on behalf of SafeCREW. Discussions centered on the urgent need for toxic-free testing protocols in alignment with the EU Green Deal, which has garnered substantial support from participants.
CALUX bioassays (such as for EDC and PFAS) have been presented in several EU projects (such as also RiskHunt3R). There was much interest in our effect-based CALUX bioassay testing for DBPs, plastic materials and drinking water in Milan covering EDCs, PAHs, PFAS and many other relevant complex mixtures of water pollutants.
Participants expressed a demand for guidance documents and deeper insights into the applicability of these NAM strategies. Water experts provided valuable feedback on existing challenges, while policy makers emphasised their need for informed decision-making resources.
Notably, there was an invitation for further dialogue about SafeCREW initiatives at upcoming meetings, reflecting a strong desire for collaborative participation and knowledge exchange.
The audience spans utilities, water utility associations, regulatory bodies, water professionals, technicians, academia, and the general public.
This engaging platform not only stimulates active participation but also influences future policy-making frameworks essential for ensuring a toxic-free environment.