The ZeroPollution4Water Cluster has published a new joint policy brief, “Reinforcing EU Groundwater Policy for Emerging Risk“ developed by six EU-funded projects: MAR2PROTECT, NINFA, UPWATER, NIAGARA, SafeCrew and LIFE-CASCADE.
This document sets out key recommendations to strengthen the protection of groundwater resources in Europe and support the effective implementation of the Groundwater Directive (GWD). It builds on recent research and innovation results to address emerging risks affecting groundwater quality and availability.
Groundwater represents approximately 75% of the European Union’s drinking water supply and plays a critical role in agriculture, industry and ecosystem resilience. However, it is increasingly under pressure from pollution, climate change and overexploitation, making stronger and more coordinated policy action essential .
Key policy recommendations
- Strengthen Digital and Integrated Monitoring of Groundwater in the EU
- Establish a Microbiological Watch List for Groundwater Monitoring
- Support sustainable agricultural practices and strengthening targeted monitoring of pesticides in groundwater
- Support the restrictions on the use of Persistent, Mobile, and Toxic substances (PMT) compounds, such as PFAS
- Strengthen Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) practices in the GWD and related water policies
- Support deployment of nature-based solutions (NbS) as key tools to mitigate groundwater pollution
- Encourage the adoption of passive samplers for groundwater and NbS monitoring
Towards a more resilient groundwater policy
These recommendations contribute to a more integrated, data-driven and forward-looking approach to groundwater management in Europe, supporting the EU’s broader ambition of achieving zero pollution in water systems and ensuring long-term resource sustainability.
📄 Read the full policy brief: https://zeropollution4water.eu/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Groundwater-Policy-Brief-ZP4W.pdf
Find all our policy publications at: Policy Publications | ZeroPollution4Water Cluster