Water Framework Directive (WFD)

The Water Framework Directive promotes a new approach to water management through river basin planning.  It is the most substantial piece of water legislation ever produced by the European Commission, and will provide the main means for achieving sustainable management of water in the UK and the other Member States for many years to come.

It requires that all inland and coastal waters within defined river basin districts must reach at least good status by 2015 and defines how this should be achieved through the establishment of environmental objectives and ecological targets for surface waters.

The result will be a healthy water environment achieved by taking due account of environmental, economic and social considerations.

The Environment Agency

The Environment Agency is the key organisation responsible for implementing the WFD in the UK.  You can access their website here

There is also a Water Framework Directive Information Centre which can be accessed here