Worldwide, the use of DNA-based monitoring is developing fast and the time has come to focus on standardisation and implementation into routine monitoring. This session welcomes experiences on how to implement these novel techniques into routine water quality or biodiversity monitoring in all kind of aquatic ecosystems. We also are looking for people sharing experiences on how to communicate to stakeholders such as monitoring agencies and regulatory bodies and how to involve them in the decision-making. Finally, legal issues and opportunities or threats with regard to the use of DNA-based monitoring will be discussed during this session.