Vesistönsuojelulaki

Vesistönsuojelulaki, or the Water Protection Act, is a Finnish statute governing the protection of inland waters and coastal waters. The primary objective of this law is to prevent the pollution of water bodies and to restore their ecological condition. It aims to ensure that water resources are maintained in a good ecological and chemical state, serving both environmental and human needs.

The law establishes principles for the management and use of water resources. It defines what constitutes water pollution and sets out measures to prevent and reduce it. This includes regulating discharges of pollutants from industrial, agricultural, and municipal sources. The Act also addresses requirements for wastewater treatment and sets emission limits for various substances. Furthermore, it outlines procedures for assessing the environmental impact of activities that may affect water bodies.

Vesistönsuojelulaki plays a crucial role in implementing EU environmental legislation, such as the Water Framework Directive, within Finland. It provides the legal framework for monitoring water quality, identifying pressures on water bodies, and developing programs of measures to achieve good water status. The law assigns responsibilities to various authorities, including the Ministry of the Environment, Centres for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY centres), and municipalities, in the implementation and enforcement of water protection measures. It also includes provisions for public participation in water management planning.