40 per cent EU water pollution by the close of the century

A new study, using predicted climate and land use change scenarios between 1990 and 2090, has estimated that 40 per cent of the continent's streams will no longer have good ecological status by the close of the century.

The research, conducted by Scientists at the Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research (UFZ), has highlighted how the use of insecticides in agriculture will jeopardise the state of streams, particularly in central Europe and the Baltic and Nordic regions.

The study was conducted by assessing the amount of insecticides used, the plant species cultivated and land use. The results were then visualised in maps.

Researchers then used a baseline situation of 1990 and compared it to a climate scenario of 2090. There was also a positive correlation anticipated between climate change and the use of insecticides, with the warm weather likely to trigger more use of chemicals in agriculture.

Securing a good chemical and ecological status for all waters will not be an easy task, according to the researchers, placing great importance on cutting pesticides and establishing buffer zones along the streams. This will create a refuge for threatened species to recolonise.