Swansea University is playing a key role in a new collaborative network dedicated to tackling the global challenges posted by microbial biofilms.
The Biofilm Alliance, an initiative funded by Innovate UK, will bring together experts from academia, industry, metrology, regulatory bodies, and standardisation organisations, to bridge the gap between research and effective regulation.
Microbial biofilms – communities of microorganisms that adhere to surfaces and form protective layers – pose substantial challenges across numerous sectors, with global economic impacts estimated at $5 trillion annually.
Swansea is one of four partners along with National Biofilms Innovation Centre, Manchester Metropolitan University and Industrial Microbiological Service Ltd. It will be leading the Network’s initiatives for the water sector covering leisure water, drinking water and waste water systems.
Microbial biochemistry expert Dr Geertje van Keulen, of Swansea University Medical School, said: “Standard sanitation procedures of water-containing systems are alas not 100 per cent fool-proof as biofilms are prone to develop on surfaces and in pipes.
“Biofilms harbour microbes making sanitation products far less effective. Biofilms in the water sector can cause millions of pounds of damage but can also threaten public health and the environment so it is vital that products which target and control biofilms are proven effective.”
She explained that progress in biofilm control, prevention, and innovation has been limited due to the lack of regulatory frameworks, standardized protocols, and guidelines that address the complexities of biofilms.
Dr Van Keulen said: “The Biofilm Alliance – A Network for Regulatory Sciences, Academic Research, and Industry Collaboration aims to bring together researchers, industry and regulators to evaluate current methodologies and to work towards recommended regulatory guidance and standardizations where possible. This should ultimately result in enhanced innovation, and reduction of the economic burden and threat to public health.”
The Biofilm Alliance is one of 11 new regulatory science and innovation networks sharing £4.7million of funding from Innovate UK.
Project lead Dr Paulina Rakowska, from the National Biofilms Innovation Centre, said: “Innovate UK’s support recognises the critical need to standardise biofilm control methodologies and streamline regulatory processes. In the long term, the Biofilm Alliance will not only advance regulatory science but also drive innovation, ultimately benefiting a range of industries and protecting public health and the environment.”
