When the exception becomes the rule – Overuse of exemptions from reaching the objectives of the Water Framework Directive due to coal mining and combustion

The overarching objective of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) is to achieve good status of Europe’s waters. The deadline was set for 2015, but the Directive also allows the use of exemptions on certain grounds for reaching the goals. More than 20 years after the adoption of the WFD it is clear that not only the state of Europe’s waters is far from good but also that exemptions have been used excessively instead of exceptionally.

This joint briefing by EEB and Client Earth explores the legal background and presents case studies while proposing also recommendations for Member States about the Water Framework Directive.