| Description |
This indicator measures the share of reported waterbodies with pesticides exceeding thresholds based on Environmental Quality Standards (EQS) for the toxicity of the pesticides measured. Pesticides include both active substances from plant protection products and biocides as well as their relevant metabolites, thereby reflecting the substances actually present in the water and affecting aquatic life. Only substances with a defined EQS are included. |
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| Rationale |
This indicator can be considered similar to global SDG indicator 6.3.2 “Proportion of bodies of water with good ambient water quality”. Protection of water resources, water ecosystems and of drinking and bathing water is at the cornerstone of EU environmental policy. EU water policy provides a framework to comprehensively address water protection and for achieving good status for inland surface waters, transitional waters, coastal waters and groundwater. The Water Framework Directive is the main European legislation aiming to prevent water pollution and the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030 supports the implementation of the Water Framework Directive’s objective by requiring Member States to restore freshwater ecosystems. |
| Content and progress |
The 8th Environment Action Programme sets the environmental policy agenda for the years from 2021 to 2030 and explicitly mentions water-related issues in two of its six priority objectives. These two objectives are: (1) pursuing a zero-pollution ambition for a toxic free-environment, including for air, water and soil and protecting the health and well-being of citizens from environment-related risks and impacts; and (2) protecting, preserving and restoring biodiversity and enhancing natural capital, notably air, water, soil, and forest, freshwater, wetland and marine ecosystems. |
| Long-term objective |
No description |
