PROMISCES Young Researchers: Meiqi Liu

In PROMISCES, many young researchers are working in a wide variety of fields. But one thing they have in common: To enable a circular economy in the soil-sediment-water system and to fight PFAS. One of them is Meiqi Liu. She is a PhD student and is working as project assistant at TU Wien. She hopes that the progress made in PROMISCES at the EU level will have a global impact on international cooperation and awareness.

 

Do you think your work can have an impact on the world? What is your motivation?

I believe that my work can impact the world by raising public awareness about environmental issues. My motivation stems from the hope of making a positive change and it is exciting to see our efforts in this direction.

 

Why did you choose to work in the field of PFAS research and why is this topic so important?

I have studied emerging contaminants in my bachelor's and master's programs. Transitioning to PFAS was somewhat coincidental. But I am glad to focus on this topic as PFASs are prevalent in our daily lives, yet many people are unaware of their presence and evolving changes. For instance, I am familiar with C8/Teflon from documentaries and films, but only came across the term "PFAS" once I worked in the PROMISCES project, and started associating it to various issues I already knew.

 

Which impact do you think your research will have on the future? (e.g. EU directives)/ What changes can be made with this new knowledge?

I am doing and will continue to disseminate my research to a broader audience, including academic peers, students, friends, family and the public, whenever there is a chance. By raising general awareness, we can drive significant changes from bottom to the top. Additionally, we strive to have our work recognized by government authorities and European Parliament, to advocate for changes at the legislative level. Overall, I hope our research can push the changes towards a more environmentally friendly and safer world.

Does working in PROMISCES have an impact on everyday life?

Yes, definitely! I am always happy to share my knowledge about PFAS with anyone interested, and we exchange information on PFAS-free products. However, I see the challenges and importance of this work through my family, who live outside the EU and often lack awareness and options regarding PFAS and products. I hope the progress made in PROMISCES at the EU level will have a global impact, encouraging international cooperation and awareness.