Research platform on antibiotic resistance spread through wastewater treatment plants

Wastewater treatment plants render sewage safe for release to the environment. Unfortunately, they are also one of the most important sources of antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARB). Microbes from humans, animals and the environment – many of which harbour antibiotic-resistant genes resulting from overuse of antibiotics – come together in a confined system. Standardised data collection and analyses regarding ARB and associated genes present in wastewater are vital to effectively managing future environmental and public health risks. REPARES will fill a critical need, supporting academic expertise and funding, while creating the structural framework for cooperation with public and governmental agencies via integrated databases, a web platform, and numerous outreach and informational activities.