The Water Framework Directive (WFD)

The Water Framework Directive (WFD) is a European Union law aimed at protecting and improving water quality across all EU member states. It establishes a framework for managing rivers, lakes, groundwater, and coastal waters, ensuring they are clean and healthy. The WFD promotes a holistic approach, requiring countries to assess water conditions, set quality standards, and create management plans that involve local communities and stakeholders. Its goal is to achieve "good status" for all water bodies by 2027, balancing environmental protection with economic needs and promoting sustainable water use.