Water Framework Directive

The aim of the EU Water Framework Directive, which came into force in December 2000, is to help ensure that water is more effectively and sustainably managed for the benefit of both society and the environment. It brings together management and protection of the whole of the water environment – surface and groundwater – and the activities and processes that impact it.

Here we provide an insight into the implications of the Directive and how it is being implemented in the UK - with an emphasis on groundwater. We also explain where the proposed new Directive on groundwater fits in. Links are included for sites that provide background information on the Directive and up-to-date information on the progress of the implementation process in the UK.

Implications of the Water Framework Directive
Summary of groundwater aspects of the Water Framework Directive
The proposed Directive on groundwater
Implementation of the Water Framework Directive in the UK and related links