Eawag - Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology

Below dams that were licensed before 1992, there is still hardly any residual water flowing in many places. (zvg)

Estimates as to how much more electricity could be generated from hydropower in the absence of residual flow requirements vary widely, and they have previously been based on inadequate data. A team of researchers from WSL, the University of Bern and Eawag has now used a new database and simulations to show that, between now and 2050, the additional decrease in production due to residual flow requirements – amounting to barely 2% – is likely to be much lower than feared.

Rare earths are indispensable for many technical applications, but they also find their way into bodies of water and can have a negative impact on the organisms living there. (Photo: Adobe Stock)

News

Rare earths pollute Zurich's waters

February 10, 2026

An investigation in the canton of Zurich has shown that certain rare earth elements can enter bodies of water via wastewater treatment plants in concentrations that pose a risk to aquatic organisms. These elements are gadolinium, which comes from contrast agents used in healthcare facilities, as well as lanthanum and cerium, which are used in a number of wastewater treatment plants to remove phosphorus.

Eawag environmental chemist Kathrin Fenner explained how AI-based models can be developed and used to predict how chemicals behave. (Photo: Luzia Schär)

News

Research meets the future: AI for sustainability

January 23, 2026

To mark the 2026 World Economic Forum (WEF), the ETH Domain presented highlights from its research, demonstrating how artificial intelligence is paving the way for greater sustainability. Policymakers and business leaders learned about practical AI applications for the environment and society.

Flea and tick repellents for pets are the most likely sources of fipronil in Swiss waterways. (Image: Canva / Csaba Deli)

News

From flea repellent to waterways

January 15, 2026

The insecticide fipronil has been detected in Swiss waterways in concentrations that are critical for aquatic life. It has not been permitted for use as a plant protection product for many years. A study involving Eawag now shows that the most likely source of contamination is flea and tick repellents for pets.