In European Union countries, the number of polluted lakes, rivers, and coastal areas has increased by 62%.
This is stated in a report by the European Environment Agency (EEA) presented on Monday, according to Euro.news.
Only 37% of Europe's rivers and lakes had a “good” or “high” ecological status, according to the EEA report, which calls on politicians to take action to curb high levels of micropollutants in water bodies.
According to the report, PFAS, known as “forever chemicals” because of their inability to break down in the environment, are found in high concentrations in European rivers and lakes.
The report also found that 30% of Europe's land is at risk of drought, and 34% of the population is at risk of running out of water at some point.
Causes of water pollution
According to experts, agriculture and forestry are key factors in water pollution and biodiversity loss. Air and water pollution, as well as improper waste management, have been estimated to cost the EU €180 billion per year.
"We cannot afford to lower our ambitions on climate, environment, and sustainable development. Our report on the state of the environment, produced in collaboration with 38 countries, clearly sets out the science-based evidence and demonstrates why we need to act," said EEA Executive Director Lina Ilja-Mononen.
Environment Commissioner Jessica Roswall said that the EU law on urban wastewater treatment, which requires pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturers to cover at least 80% of their waste, is another step forward in improving water quality.
However, the latest revision of EU water rules, adopted last week by member states, has been criticized by green activists for its lack of ambition.
It should be recalled that in 2024, the EU budget for environmental protection reached a record high, exceeding defense spending.
Last year, the total expenditure of European Union countries on environmental protection reached €359.9 billion. This is a record figure for the last 10 years, exceeding the bloc's defense spending in the same year.
