EU Member States are not on track to meet the objective of good water status by 2027 at the latest and to reduce the potential negative consequences of major floods, according to the fifth report on the implementation of EU water legislation, published on 26 February by the European Commission.
This report assesses both the implementation of the second river basin management plans under the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) and the first flood risk management plans (Directive 2007/60/EC) for the period 2015-2021.
"Most of Europe's 130,000 water bodies are falling short of the high standards we need. I am calling on Member States to step up their efforts and ensure we deliver the quality that citizens need and nature requires, as soon as possible", says Environment Commissioner Karmenu Vella.
In particular, the report shows that despite the obligation for Member States to make the necessary investments to improve water quality, most Member States continue to use exemptions - for about half of surface and groundwater - and do not adequately finance control measures.
WWF considers it unacceptable that "with only 40% of lakes and wetlands currently healthy as a result of pollution and destructive infrastructure", Member States are not taking action. To consult the report: https://bit.ly/2EjIHEc , and the recommendations by country: https://bit.ly/2GM6S1T. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)