European river quality improvement lags behind 2030 environmental targets

A study led by the Institute of Water Engineering and Environment of the Universitat Politècnica de València (IIAMA-UPV) indicates that while European river quality has improved in recent years, the pace of improvement is insufficient to meet 2030 environmental targets.

Data analyzed between 2015 and 2021 shows that organic pollution decreased in 14 of the 18 countries studied, and phosphate concentrations fell in 11 of the 16 states with sufficient data. However, Slovenia is the only country currently on a trajectory fully compatible with the 2030 goals. Other countries with positive assessments, including Finland, Estonia, Ireland, Italy, and Denmark, must maintain or strengthen management policies to ensure sustainability.

In contrast, Spain and Bulgaria face the most critical situations, characterized by high pollution levels combined with unfavorable trends. Other countries facing significant challenges include Belgium, Lithuania, Romania, and Sweden.