For those of you searching for the best places to dip into the ocean in Europe, a new report covers almost all the bodies of water on the continent. This year’s report reveals Cyprus and Croatia as having the cleanest bathing waters, followed closely by Malta (closeup in chart below), Greece, and Ireland.
Sparkling seas off Girne, Cyprus - Courtesy Ulrich Kersting
The results of the European Environment Agency’s (EEA) and the European Commission’s, report reflect comparisons of water quality for more than 21,000 coastal and inland water bodies across the EU-27. Environment Commissioner Janez Potocnik had this to add about the findings:
“I am glad to see that the quality of Europe’s bathing waters remains high, although there is room for improvement. Clean water is a priceless resource, and we should not take it for granted. I would encourage Member States to ensure we turn the slight decline we experiencing last year into an upward trend.”
Closeup from the report - Malta and other selected water qualities
Last year 92.1% of Europe’s coastal bathing waters, along with 90.2% inland, complied with the minimum quality standards suggested by regulators. These reports provide comprehensive data about EU member state water quality overall.
A Croatian Cowgirl goes for swim in crystal waters - Courtesy black stena
Swimmers can find much more relevant data about their favorite or intended swimming haunts via this information, and families can vacation with confidence too. With water resources declining worldwide, it is crucial that people have up to date information like this.
Professor Jacqueline McGlade, Executive Director of the European Environment Agency, had this to say about EU water quality:
“Clean water for swimming is very important for EU citizens, and this information will allow them to demand the highest quality water in lakes, rivers and beaches. Public participation is essential for the continued monitoring of Europe’s bathing water, especially as the effects of climate change become more visible.”
For more information via the report about your next swimming hole, please consult the European Environmental Agency’s official pages, read the original press release via PR Newswire, or download the report via the EEA link there. Be sure and visit the European Commission’s bathing water site as well. The image below of water quality ratings is from this report.
Cyprus and Croatia lead water quality spots
