Outcomes and expected impact
We will provide means to guide action both at the source (approval), and in other parts of the water cycle. Standardization of methodology will facilitate possible future inclusion in regulatory systems in Europe and elsewhere. Here, the involvement of stakeholders, particularly regulatory bodies, in the process is important. The maritime sector will receive guidance to improve sustainable transports by a better understanding of potential human health risks associated with antifouling agents (also used in e.g. fish farming). While our ultimate goal is to protect the ability to prevent and treat bacterial infections using antibiotics, the generation of analytical tools, environmental exposure data and effect data for a range of microorganisms will also inform risks for ecological effects.
Generated data will include
1) exposure levels in different matrices
2) concentrations that are likely to co-select for antibiotic resistance and promote horizontal gene transfer
3) identification of predominant and novel genetic mechanisms for co-selection, as well as
4) a risk assessment.
The knowledge created and its impact will reach well beyond the European setting. We will provide means to guide action both at the source (approval), and in other parts of the water cycle. Predicted No Effect Concentrations and new methodology will facilitate possible future inclusion in regulatory systems, in Europe and elsewhere. The maritime sector will receive guidance to improve sustainable transports by a better understanding of potential human health risks associated with the use of antifouling agents.