On 3 November 2025, the University of Jaén hosted a special “Scientific Breakfast” where researchers Dr. Carlos Soria and Dr. Ana del Arco met with 1st-year Baccalaureate students from SAFA High School (Úbeda), exploring the challenge of “Emerging Contaminants: from the medicine cabinet to the ecosystem”.

Analyzing the Impact of Emerging Contaminants

Carlos Soria and Ana del Arco led a discussion on how common pharmaceutical products and food-production chemicals eventually reach our water bodies. They highlighted a concerning reality: many current wastewater treatment infrastructures are not fully equipped to eliminate these specific compounds. This persistence in the water cycle threatens the delicate balance and functionality of aquatic biodiversity.

Proposing Nature-based Solutions (NbS)

To counter these threats, the researchers presented the innovative approach of the NBS4AQUAMISSION project, explaining how Nature-based Solutions use natural processes to provide an additional layer of treatment for wastewater. This biological “buffer” is essential for decontaminating water further and ensuring the long-term protection of aquatic ecosystems.

Fostering Scientific Debate

The event gave students a unique opportunity to engage directly with experts, emphasising the importance of scientific research in finding sustainable solutions for water management. We thank the students from SAFA Úbeda for their visit, enthusiasm and commitment to a more sustainable future for our planet’s water resources.