River basin management plans developed in Greece, based on the WFD 2000/60/EC guidelines

Abstract

The Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC (WFD) sets an overall framework for water management in Europe. The main instrument for its implementation is the river basin management plan (RBMP) and the accompanying programme of measures. As we are almost in the end of the WFD implementation cycle (in 2015), the paper presents the progress regarding the RBMPs developed by each EU27 member state (MS). A review of the conformity checks regarding the obligation and the quality of the RBMPs is provided for all EU27 MS. Special focus is given to Greece attempting a comparative analysis of its RBMPs. Although they comply with the context requirements set by the WFD, there have been problems occurring as consequences intense disputes. Special focus is given in the economic assessment. Different methodologies used and the lack of data are the main problems identified. © 2014 Balaban Desalination Publications. All rights reserved.