Implementation of the Directive 2006/7/EC in selected EU member states in the 2017-2019 period

Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of this article is to present bathing water quality in the EU, with particular emphasis on Poland and neighbouring countries. In the authors' opinion, identification of the possible deficiencies of the adopted solutions may allow to assess and amend the content of the normative acts.

APPROACH/METHODOLOGY/DESIGN: Desktop-based research that consisted in a document and database review of available information, statistics and other data from international, national, regional sources. The statistical analysis: performed on the basis of qualitative data collected from Poland and other European Union member countries via statistical databases. Subjective scope of the research: countries fulfilling the criteria of membership in the European Union and the nearest neighbourhood of Poland. Time frame for the research: was set up for the 2017-2019 period. Supplementary, a case study has been applied to present how the Directive 2006/7/EC was implemented in Poland.

FINDINGS: The analysis of the data presented in this paper shows that implementing Directive 2006/7/EC in Poland resulted in the decrease in the number of bathing sites. Moreover, it resulted in a lack of monitoring and transparency of water quality assessments in other types of designated water areas.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS: This paper identifies that it is not possible to quantify water quality on a 4-year basis for the majority of bathing sites in Poland and thus the transparency of water quality assessments in Poland has been impaired. The paper also raises awareness about problems with the implementation of the Directive 2006/7/EC in Poland and indicates the need for change.

ORIGINALITY/VALUE: The presented overview may be useful for improving the management of bathing water quality in Poland, as it contributes to its proper current diagnosis.