In a report published on Tuesday 15 October, the European Environment Agency (EEA) estimated that less than 40% of surface water, such as rivers and lakes, is healthy. Groundwater, which provides almost two-thirds of the EU’s drinking water, is also affected. 25% of this groundwater is not in good chemical condition.
Pollution, habitat degradation, the effects of climate change and the over-exploitation of water resources are at the root of this pressure on surface water and groundwater. But it is agriculture that is exerting the greatest pressure, according to the report. Europe’s biggest net consumer of water, it over-exploits water and pollutes it through the intensive use of nutrients and pesticides, according to the EEA, which is calling for a change in practices.
To improve water resilience, the EEA report lists, among other things, better water management, reducing the use of harmful substances and nutrients, and restoring nature.
“At the current rate of progress”, according to the EEA, good water status will not be achieved by the 2027 deadline laid down in the Water Framework Directive. (Original version in French by Florent Servia)