Response to the updated EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, recently approved by the European Commission:

"Yet again we are in danger of living up to our reputation as the dirty man of Europe. We left the EU with the promise that the government would not weaken environmental protection and that the UK would not fall behind. But this week that is exactly what has happened. The European Council has signed new laws to improve sewage treatment and control chemicals to waterways.

"With 35% of our rivers failing to meet good condition due to treated sewage, and not one meeting good overall status once chemicals are considered, we cannot afford to fall behind our European neighbours.  

"As they embark on their reviews of water management and regulation, Dan Corry and Sir Jon Cunliffe must address the regulatory gap opening up between us and other nations in the EU, and the Government must take urgent action to close it."

Tessa Wardley, Director of Communications & Advocacy

Information about the new EU laws can be found via the European Council Website: https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/press/press-releases/2024/11/05/urban-wastewater-council-adopts-new-rules-for-more-efficient-treatment/