Dark Waters: Pesticides and Pollutants put Europe’s water under pressure

Brussels, October 15, 2024 – A new report from the European Environment Agency states that Europe’s water supply is at risk. Only 37% of surface waters are still in good ecological condition. The main causes are clear: intensive agriculture, pesticides, and persistent pollutants such as mercury and brominated flame retardants. 

In this context, Jutta Paulus, the environmental spokesperson for the Green Group in the European Parliament, comments: 

“Our waters are the lifeblood of our environment and society – yet we continue to poison them with pesticides and dangerous chemicals. The alarming state of our rivers and lakes is the bitter legacy of misguided agricultural and industrial policies. Despite existing bans, persistent pollutants like mercury remain among the main causes of this contamination. If these toxic residues were not present, 80% of Europe’s waters would exhibit good chemical quality. 

The latest report from the European Environment Agency clearly shows that urgent and stricter measures are necessary to prevent such issues in the future. European environmental policy must finally drastically reduce the use of harmful pesticides and consistently transition agriculture to ecological practices. The upcoming revision of the chemicals regulation offers the perfect opportunity to take decisive action. It was promised in the last legislative term but has been shelved due to massive lobbying pressure. 

Now, candidates for Commissioner like Roswall, Ribera, and Séjourné are responsible. If their mandates are confirmed, they must deliver – for the sake of the environment, people, and future generations.”