The consultation precedes the reconsideration of the current directive. Brussels wants to know whether the current approach still fits within the European Green Deal and the new Climate and Environmental Policy.
Especially due to the use of chemical pesticides in agriculture and horticulture and the spreading of animal manure on grasslands, nitrate contamination of groundwater is increasing in many parts of the EU.
“The Nitrate Directive protects groundwater, rivers, lakes, and seas from pollution caused by nitrates. It sets limits on the use of artificial fertilizers and promotes the adoption of good agricultural and environmental practices,” emphasized the European Commission.
The EU has rolled back previous derogations for nitrogen use in several member states, including Germany, the Netherlands, and Ireland, because these countries have not yet improved the cleanliness of their groundwater.
Brussels also points out that it is bound by other international agreements such as the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework to “reduce nutrient loss worldwide by 50% by 2030.”
Under the Nitrate Directive, EU member states are required to carry out various actions, including conducting more water quality research and designating areas that are particularly sensitive to nitrate pollution.
The Nitrate Directive also supports the implementation of the Water Framework Directive, which “aims for all European surface waters to reach a “good status” by 2027.