Securing the sustainable use of water remains a key challenge

Clean water is an essential resource for human health, agriculture, energy production, transport and nature. But it is also under multiple pressures. Currently, only 40% of Europe’s surface water bodies achieve good ecological status. In addition, even though EU countries have managed to reduce selected pressures, the status of our marine ecosystems remains critical, both in terms of species and habitats. More efforts are needed to achieve Europe's freshwater and marine-related environmental targets.

Are our seas healthy and clean?

The current condition of Europe’s seas is generally poor according to the EEA report ‘Marine Messages II’

Data as a way to drive initiatives and policy-making at all governance levels

Are Europe's beaches clean?

Europe has a great diversity of beautiful beaches and bathing areas, and each year millions of Europeans spend their weekends at their local beach or their holidays cooling down by the water. Many citizens have a keen interest in the quality of bathing waters.