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December 2003 will be a key date for those concerned with improving the quality of our water. This December 2003, the UK is to transpose the EC Water Framework Directive into English and Welsh Law and require major changes in the way we monitor and manage natural waters. For the first time, defined ecological characteristics will be used to guide the setting of standards for all water bodies according to a common European system. This system will provide a detailed and integrated framework for improved protection and management of water resources and aquatic environments from catchment to the sea and include:
High quality habitats with virtually no human impact probably do not occur in highly populated areas such as the UK and the target level is ‘good’ meaning only slightly less than high. The legislation requires good quality to be achieved in all water bodies and groundwaters by 2015. At the moment ‘high’ and ‘ good’ quality have yet to be defined but the definition will include aspects of fauna and flora, physical habitat structure and water chemistry. The Water Framework Directive is set to affect all who manage and use water from governmental agencies and water companies down to the consumer who may pay more for the water from his tap. This will also include those wishing to develop land because they will have to have increasing regard to the quality of water on their land and water bodies that may be affected by their proposals. We await the new legislation with interest. |
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