River basin management plans are a key instrument that combines the Water Framework Directive and the Urban Waste Water Directive. This was emphasized by Ihor Hopchak, Deputy Head of the State Agency of Water Resources of Ukraine, during a panel discussion at the Yaremche 2023 International Water Forum.

The main topics of the Forum were the restoration and water strategy of Ukraine, operation of water and sewerage companies during the war, cooperation with international partners, etc.

Ukraine’s EU candidate status requires wider and stricter implementation of regulations, standards, and commitments, including in the field of water resources. In particular, according to the EU-Ukraine Association Agreement, Ukraine has committed to implement requirements of 6 water directives, including the key Water Framework Directive and the Urban Waste Water Directive.

According to Ihor Hopchak, the effectiveness of implementing the requirements of the EU Water Framework Directive is closely linked to and depends on the implementation of the Urban Waste Water Directive. Indeed, the list of programs (plans) for a river basin area will contain measures aimed at reducing water pollution by organic, biogenic, and hazardous substances and will include planned infrastructure projects and measures aimed at reducing their impact on surface water.

“60% of the effectiveness of river basin management plans in terms of reducing water pollution is the construction, reconstruction, and modernization of treatment facilities and sewage networks,” emphasized Ihor Hopchak.

He also added that 9 draft RBMPs had already been developed for all river basins, which would be supplemented by a program of measures to achieve a good water status by the end of the year. It is also important that management plans constitute measures to restore the water sector and are included in the Plan for recovery and reconstruction of Ukraine in the post-war period. And it is essential that the reconstruction be carried out in accordance with the requirements of the EU Directives.

For reference

The Yaremche 2023 International Water Forum is organized by the Ukrainian Association of Water Supply and Sewerage Enterprises, Ukrvodokanalekologia, and takes place from February 14 to 17 in Yaremche.