Better Reporting under the Drinking Water Directive

The objective of the Drinking Water Directive (98/83/EC) on the quality of water intended for human consumption is to protect human health from the adverse effects of any contamination by ensuring that the water is wholesome and clean. Member States are obliged to report periodically on the quality of drinking water to the European Commission and to the public.

On behalf of the European Commission, adelphi developed a method to enhance the current reporting process. The new method identified existing gaps and best practices in order to improve the consistency and the reliability of the data collected by the Member States. Furthermore, adelphi examined how it may be possible to include in these processes water suppliers which are not required by the European Commission to engage in reporting activities.

The reporting process will be optimised, taking into account the diverse target audience and the various challenges involved. The goal is a user-friendly visualisation of available information on drinking water quality, comparable at the European, national and regional levels.