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Johannes Graupner

Nutrients in inland waters need to be reduced

IGB gives feedback on the EU action plan for better nutrient management
The European Commission intends to develop an action plan for better nutrient management. This is important because far too high emissions of nitrogen and phosphorus are polluting most inland waters in Europe, with negative consequences for aquatic ecosystems, their biodiversity, their functions and thus, also their ecosystem services. IGB researchers see an urgent need for action here and have contributed their expertise to the consultation process.

Photo: Myriams-Fotos/pixabay

In their feedback, the researchers explain that the EU environmental legislation currently in place does not solve the problem of high nutrient pollution. This is due to a lack of coherence and harmonization, but also to the strong implementation deficit in the member states.

The scientists underline that broad scientific evidence is already available, including on the mechanistic understanding for appropriate targets and necessary management measures. Integrated approaches to nutrient pollution should therefore be developed as soon as possible in order not to jeopardize the EU's and member states' own climate and environmental goals. In this context, the researchers emphasize above all the relevance of the precautionary principle and the direct avoidance of emissions.

The IGB feedback can directly be downloaded here or below this text.