European Waterways Declared in Critical Condition Due to Toxic Pollution

A new EU report highlights widespread contamination from mercury and other pollutants, with many countries unlikely to meet water quality targets by 2027.

• Only 39.5% of EU surface waters were in good ecological condition and 26.8% in good chemical condition as of 2021, reflecting a decline since 2015.
• The contamination is primarily attributed to mercury and other toxic pollutants from industrial emissions, agricultural nitrates, and atmospheric deposition.
• France has been singled out for high levels of pesticide and nitrate pollution in 31% of its groundwater, leading to EU legal action over non-compliance with drinking water directives.
• The EU is developing a 'water resilience strategy' and considering a ban on PFAS, synthetic 'forever chemicals,' in consumer products like food packaging and waterproof clothing.
• Efforts to combat pollution include exploring 'nature credits' for eco-friendly practices, though this approach has faced skepticism from environmental groups.

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L'Humanité L'Express Sud Ouest