Ukraine brings water monitoring closer to EU standards

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine has adopted a resolution aimed at improving the control of water resources quality in Ukraine.

The document provides for the introduction of monitoring of substances from the EU Watch List. This will enable the timely detection of new or insufficiently studied pollutants in water, including pharmaceuticals, pesticides and persistent chemical compounds that may pose a risk to the environment and human health.

One of the key changes is the creation of a separate list of substances subject to continuous monitoring, as well as the establishment of requirements for monitoring points, frequency and methods of measurements.

“Today, high-quality water monitoring is not only a matter of fulfilling European integration commitments, but also an issue of water security and public health. A modern monitoring system that allows for the prompt detection of new threats to water resources and the adoption of effective management decisions is the foundation for protecting the population, ensuring safe water use and sustainable management of Ukraine’s water resources,” noted Iryna Ovcharenko, Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment and Agriculture.

The Government Resolution “On Amendments to the Procedure for State Water Monitoring”, developed by the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture, will also contribute to the implementation of Ukraine’s Water Strategy until 2050, the achievement of good ecological and chemical status of waters, and the fulfilment of Ukraine’s international commitments in the field of environment and water policy.