STAT+: Pharma wins a battle over the cost of wastewater treatment in Europe

Ed’s stories explore prescription drug pricing, affordability and access, as well issues surrounding patents, litigation, and legislation. He is also the author of the morning Pharmalittle newsletter and the afternoon Pharmalot newsletter.In a boost for the pharmaceutical industry, a European Union Advocate General recommended annulling part of a directive that requires drug and cosmetics manufacturers to finance at least 80% of the costs of wastewater treatment. The directive, which revised an earlier version and went into effect early last year, was designed to protect human health and the environment from harmful discharges of urban wastewater and ensure cleaner rivers, lakes, groundwater, and coasts across Europe. The effort was projected to save about $7.5 billion annually by 2040. A key portion of the initiative is a “quaternary treatment stage” that involves removing micropollutants — which are mostly created by pharmaceuticals and cosmetics — from wastewater. Member states must ensure that companies contribute to programs to deal with the waste they generate by December 2028. STAT+ Exclusive Story Already have an account? Log in This article is exclusive to STAT+ subscribers Unlock this article — plus in-depth analysis, newsletters, premium events, and news alerts. Already have an account? Log in View All Plans To read the rest of this story subscribe to STAT+. Subscribe