Today, member states of the European Union gave their initial approval to stricter rules on the quality and supply of drinking water, thereby responding to the demands of citizens in a successful appeal at the EU level.
The new rules, approved by the ambassadors of the 27 European Union member states, set minimum health requirements for pipes and other materials related to the provision of drinking water.
The lead limits will be lowered, and for the first time restrictions will be imposed on Bisphenol A, a chemical used in the manufacture of plastics classified as toxic and harmful to reproduction.
The rules also address concerns about the effects of pharmaceuticals, plastic molecules known as "microplastics" and other substances in drinking water that could interfere with the production of human hormones that cause birth defects and other disorders.
The new laws - which must now pass through the European Parliament and need final and formal approval from member states - should promote the provision of public water taps as well while promoting the free water tap item in restaurants.
It is reported that most Europeans have easy access to safe drinking water in the European Union, under strict water quality regulations that have been in effect since 1998.
However, in 2014, 1.68 million people signed an EU-wide appeal, demanding the right of all citizens to have access to water and sanitation amid concerns over the privatization of water services institutions.