Regional Training on Inorganic Contaminant Analysis

In a significant step toward strengthening regional capabilities, the EU4Green project hosted a two-day training session in Tirana, Albania, focusing on the analysis of inorganic contaminants. The event brought together professionals from across the region, providing hands-on experience and in-depth theoretical training to enhance the accuracy and reliability of contaminant analysis in soil, food, and water quality assessments.

This training event, part of EU4Green’s ongoing commitment to promoting sustainable environmental practices and fostering regional cooperation, marked a key milestone in strengthening the capacity of laboratories to monitor and mitigate contamination risks in line with EU standards.

Strengthening Laboratory Expertise

Participants were introduced to elemental analysis and ICP-MS (Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry), two critical methodologies used to detect trace elements and contaminants in various sample types, including water, food, and soil. The sessions provided a balance between theoretical understanding and practical laboratory application, ensuring that participants gained the skills necessary to implement these methods effectively in their respective institutions.

In addition to the focus on traditional inorganic contaminant analysis, the program introduced participants to microplastic analysis, reflecting the growing environmental concerns associated with plastic pollution. This session highlighted the importance of addressing emerging pollutants alongside conventional contaminants.

Hands-On Practical Sessions

A key feature of the training was its focus on practical laboratory work. Attendees participated in hands-on demonstrations of sample preparation techniques, including sample digestion for water, food, and soil. The sessions also covered the use of advanced software tools for method development and data analysis, ensuring participants gained a comprehensive understanding of how to manage complex datasets and deliver accurate results.

Attendees were guided through the processes required to ensure that their analyses are both accurate and reproducible, a critical component of any modern laboratory’s operations. The integration of Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) was also covered, demonstrating how these systems can streamline laboratory workflows, improve data management, and support robust reporting practices.

Driving Regional Collaboration

The event not only enhanced technical skills but also fostered regional collaboration among laboratory professionals. Participants had the opportunity to network, share best practices, and discuss common challenges related to contaminant analysis. Building on this momentum, another training on the analysis of organic contaminants, conducted by the Center for Ecotoxicology (CETI), was recently held in Podgorica, further expanding the region’s capacity to tackle both inorganic and organic pollution.

The collaborative environment encouraged knowledge exchange and the development of partnerships that will help laboratories across the region continue to improve their operations and align with EU environmental and safety standards.