Impact of EU Environmental Policy Implementation on the Quality and Status of Greek Rivers

Based on historical and WFD-compliant data, the recent inter-annual ecological status long-term chemical-physicochemical quality trends of eighteen characteristic Greek rivers have been assessed interpreted in view implementing EU environmental policies evolution human pressures. Considering predominating poor most river outflows, strengths weaknesses WFD implementation highlighted. The decrease ammonium nitrite concentrations along with relatively low BOD5 levels, indicate a general improvement WWTP infrastructure Greece other riparian countries, whereas nitrate is attributed to reduction fertilizers use, possibly, successful application Nitrates Directive certain basins. Despite capacity building governance administrative years, River Basin Management Plans (RBMPs) are being implemented centrally, largely mechanistically, minor public participation. Regarding gaps, concrete proposals formulated considering both policy/administrative technical issues. To efficiently conserve restore aquatic ecosystems, forthcoming RBMPs should be consistent ecosystem services principles focusing nature-based solutions, changing attitudes state authorities public.