The report presents a comparative analysis of how WAREG members are approaching the implementation of Directive (EU) 2020/2184 on the quality of water intended for human consumption.
WAREG has published a new report prepared by the Drinking Water Directive Implementation Working Group, analysing the implementation of Directive (EU) 2020/2184 on the quality of water intended for human consumption across WAREG members . The report is based on the responses collected through a dedicated questionnaire addressed to WAREG regulatory authorities. It provides a comparative overview of national approaches, regulatory practices and implementation challenges related to the Drinking Water Directive.
The analysis covers several key areas of the Directive, including the risk-based approach, materials and products in contact with drinking water, consumer information, access to water, water leakages and drinking water quality monitoring.
The findings show that participating authorities are progressing towards the objectives of the Drinking Water Directive, while also facing common challenges. These include investment needs, limited technical and human resources, data availability, digitalisation gaps, and the need for effective coordination among regulators, ministries, public health authorities, environmental authorities and water service providers.
The report also highlights the role of water regulatory authorities in supporting practical implementation. Although regulators are not always directly responsible for implementing all Drinking Water Directive requirements, they often play an important enabling role through tariff regulation, investment assessment, performance monitoring, benchmarking, data collection and stakeholder coordination.
By collecting and comparing information from both EU and non-EU WAREG members, the report confirms the value of WAREG as a platform for structured regulatory exchange, mutual learning and evidence-based dialogue on European water policy implementation.
The report was prepared by the the WAREG Drinking Water Directive Implementation Working Group, with the active support of the WAREG Secretariat and participating members.
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