In its evaluation of the Nitrates Directive, published today (15 July), the European Commission demonstrates the benefits brought by the 1992 text, which underpins water protection from agricultural sources of nitrate pollution in the EU.
Despite insufficient implementation in some Member States, the evaluation found that the Directive creates €10-22 billion per year in benefits from lower pollution costs, while its implementation costs are estimated at €2.8-3.1 billion a year. Although costs are unevenly spread geographically – being higher in areas where pollution sources are more concentrated – they are consistent with where benefits are reaped from reduced pollution. Notably, the evaluation points out that “the competitiveness of livestock farming remains generally unaffected by the Nitrates Directive.”
EurEau welcomes the evaluation’s conclusion that the Directive remains an effective tool for water protection. The Commission rightly points out potential improvements in implementation measures, but shows clearly the adaptability afforded by the legal text, in line with the subsidiarity principle. Although no decision is announced on a potential revision, the evaluation shows that the Directive is fit for purpose as it is.
In line with these conclusions, we call on the Commission to prioritise working with Member States to help them move towards full compliance.