The Water Framework Directive (WFD) provides a framework for protecting and improving water quality across Europe. It covers rivers, lakes, estuaries, coastal waters and groundwater.
Water bodies are assessed using chemical, physical and biological measures and classified from high to bad status. The aim is to protect healthy waters and improve those that are failing to meet good status.
The role of catchment partnerships
Improving our water environment requires collaboration. The Catchment Based Approach (CaBA) brings organisations, communities and individuals together to share knowledge, coordinate action and tackle environmental challenges at a catchment scale.
The Adur & Ouse Catchment Partnership uses this approach to support practical action that improves our rivers, waterways and wider environment for people and wildlife.