vanndirektivet

The vanndirektivet, officially the Water Framework Directive (WFD), is a landmark piece of European Union legislation adopted in 2000. Its primary objective is to protect and improve the quality of all water bodies within the EU, including rivers, lakes, groundwater, and coastal waters. The directive establishes a framework for the management of water resources based on river basin districts.

The WFD aims to achieve "good ecological and chemical status" for all waters by 2015, with a provision for extending this deadline under specific circumstances. It requires Member States to develop River Basin Management Plans (RBMPs) that outline the measures needed to achieve these objectives. These plans are updated every six years.

Key principles of the WFD include a holistic approach to water management, integrating surface water and groundwater, and considering ecological, chemical, and quantitative aspects. It promotes public participation in the planning process and encourages cost recovery for water services. The directive also addresses pressures from pollution, abstraction, and physical modifications to water bodies.

Implementation of the WFD has led to significant efforts in monitoring water quality, identifying pollution sources, and developing strategies for their reduction. While progress has been made, achieving the WFD's ambitious goals remains an ongoing challenge for many Member States, requiring continuous investment and adaptive management.