Implementation of the Nitrates Directive

Nitrates Directive Evaluation

On 15 July 2026, the Commission published its first comprehensive evaluation of the Nitrates Directive, covering more than three decades of implementation since its adoption in 1991. The evaluation assesses the performance of the Nitrates Directive against the criteria of effectiveness, efficiency, relevance, coherence and EU added value. It also identified potential for simplification. 

The evaluation found that the directive is overall effective and relevant, but identifies scope for smarter implementation.

It is published together with the latest country reports for the 2020–2023 period, which include recommendations to support Member States.

You can find more information on water quality in Member States on the European Environment Agency page.

See here for more details of the evaluation.

Monitoring & reporting

Member States are required to monitor waters, compile data and submit a progress report to the European Commission every four years. These national assessments must detail:

• Nitrate concentrations across ground and surface water, measured in monitoring points.
• The current eutrophication status of surface, coastal, and marine waters.
• A formal assessment of the effectiveness of national action programmes on water quality and farming practices.
• Any necessary revisions made to NVZ boundaries or action programme measures.
• Estimations of future trends in water quality.

These four-yearly national reports and reporting data serve as the basis for the European Commission’s implementation reports.

Implementing decisions (Derogations)

At the formal request of a Member State, the Commission can adopt an Implementing Decision allowing a higher limit in specific areas under distinct conditions and environmental safeguards.

To secure this, the Member State must provide a rigorous scientific justification proving that the higher limit will not lead to increased pollution.

Important: Derogations do not exempt a country from the overarching water quality objectives of the directive. Currently, the following authorisation is in force:

• Commission Implementing Decision granting a derogation on nitrates requested by Ireland (2025)