The latest European Bathing Water Report confirms that Europe’s waters remain among the cleanest in the world, with 96% of monitored bathing sites meeting minimum quality standards and 85% achieving an “excellent” rating.
EurEau welcomes these results, which demonstrate that strong European water legislation and sustained investment in water services deliver real benefits for citizens and the environment.
The Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive has played a crucial role in improving water quality across Europe, helping to make rivers, lakes and coastal waters safer for swimming. Looking ahead, the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) system under the recast directive will be equally important, ensuring that producers contribute to the costs of removing harmful micropollutants from wastewater and helping to protect Europe’s water resources for future generations.
Safe bathing waters do not happen by chance. They are the result of decades of investment, effective legislation and a shared commitment to protecting Europe’s waters.