The Environment Agency has published the latest Water Environment (Water Framework Directive) Regulations (WFDR) classifications, providing information to water companies, farmers and stakeholders to see clearly where the water environment is performing well and where further action is needed.
The data shows that 14.3% of England’s surface waters achieved good ecological status, meeting the standards set out under the Water Framework Directive Regulations (WFDR), retained EU legislation which assesses the health of Europe’s rivers, lakes, estuaries and groundwater. All 4,658 surface water bodies were assessed against a range of standards covering wildlife, water quality and physical habitat.
In recent years the Environment Agency has increased its workforce, leading to record numbers of inspections, better data and stronger powers, supporting more investment and better regulation of rivers, lakes and coastal waters.