Version 1
: Received: 29 May 2024 / Approved: 30 May 2024 / Online: 30 May 2024 (08:14:00 CEST)
How to cite:
Cisneros-Aguirre, J.; Afonso-Correa, M. Challenges and Deficiencies in Wastewater Management: An Analysis of European Legislation (Directive 91/271/EEC). Preprints2024, 2024051994. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202405.1994.v1
Cisneros-Aguirre, J.; Afonso-Correa, M. Challenges and Deficiencies in Wastewater Management: An Analysis of European Legislation (Directive 91/271/EEC). Preprints 2024, 2024051994. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202405.1994.v1
Cisneros-Aguirre, J.; Afonso-Correa, M. Challenges and Deficiencies in Wastewater Management: An Analysis of European Legislation (Directive 91/271/EEC). Preprints2024, 2024051994. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202405.1994.v1
APA Style
Cisneros-Aguirre, J., & Afonso-Correa, M. (2024). Challenges and Deficiencies in Wastewater Management: An Analysis of European Legislation (Directive 91/271/EEC). Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202405.1994.v1
Chicago/Turabian Style
Cisneros-Aguirre, J. and María Afonso-Correa. 2024 "Challenges and Deficiencies in Wastewater Management: An Analysis of European Legislation (Directive 91/271/EEC)" Preprints. https://doi.org/10.20944/preprints202405.1994.v1
Abstract
This article critically examines existing wastewater management legislation, highlighting its detrimental impact on environmental and public health. It emphasizes the urgent need for a mentality shift among water managers, advocating responsible stewardship of water resources. By promoting collaboration between regulatory bodies and scientific communities, the article seeks tailored solutions for complex challenges. It underscores the necessity of integrating technological innovation, rigorous monitoring, and public engagement for sustainable management. Additionally, it calls for the implementation of easy-to-adopt technological solutions, alongside rigorous monitoring and financial support. Ultimately, the article advocates for a paradigm shift in wastewater management policies towards accountability, innovation, and environmental sustainability. Directives governing wastewater management in Europe, particularly in Spain, have faced scrutiny due to significant shortcomings. Legislation has inadvertently facilitated untreated or poorly treated wastewater discharge, resulting in widespread pollution. Despite EU efforts, punitive measures have proven ineffective, with fines often borne by the public sector, although private sector responsibility. The lack of robust monitoring mechanisms and technical support exacerbates the situation, perpetuating a regressive mindset among water managers. Urgent reforms are needed to enforce strict discharge prohibitions, promote reuse, and provide financial and technical assistance. However, systemic barriers and entrenched mentalities pose formidable challenges to meaningful change.
Keywords
European Directive; Eutrophication; Sensible Areas; Wastewater Management
Subject
Environmental and Earth Sciences, Pollution
Copyright:
This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
