Gypsum and the groundwater directive
Summary: Reducing the impact of human activity on the freshwater quality is an important topic at European level. Sulphate is a parameter to be taken into account in the derivation of threshold values by the member states when it is present in the groundwater body as the result of human activities. The monitoring and reporting must be operational by December 2012, but the threshold values for groundwater quality monitoring had to be established by the member states by 22.12.2008. Based on results of a case study it is recommended that, if it is demonstrated that the sulphate is of natural origin only and it has been proved that no anthropogenic input occurs, threshold values for sulphate do not need to be established. Where sulphates result from both origins (natural and anthropogenic), deriving a threshold value remains mandatory as long as it represents a risk of failing good status. In this case, investigating on cations (ex. Cu++) could lead to a better understanding.
The European water policy aims at:
– reducing the impact of human activity on the freshwater quality;
– where necessary, progressively bringing the water back to a good status, which depends on its use (drinking, crop, industrial …);
– promoting a sustainable water use.
The monitoring and reporting must be operational by December 2012, but the threshold values for groundwater quality monitoring must have been established by the member states by 22.12. 2008.
Sulphate is a parameter to be taken into account in the derivation of threshold values by the member states when...
