Implementing UWWTD (Recast): Challenges for a sustainable, future-ready European wastewater sector

The 1991 Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive (UWWTD) played a pivotal role in regulating the collection and treatment of wastewater. However, evolving environmental needs and technological advancements necessitated a thorough review and update.

The European Parliament’s April 2024 vote on the UWWTD (recast) marks a significant stride towards aligning the directive with current environmental requirements. It sets the stage for improved protection of water resources and enhanced public health. It is the result of the collective commitment of EU institutions, water operators and environmental associations to address pressing environmental concerns that have emerged over the last 30 years.

The Parliament’s approval is a significant milestone in safeguarding Europe's water resources, contributing to the realisation of the overarching objectives of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and the European Green Deal, while protecting public health, by implementing an integrated approach to wastewater management.

The revised directive incorporates several key provisions aimed at enhancing wastewater treatment processes and reducing pollution in water bodies. These include stricter standards for nutrient and pollutant removal, improved monitoring - including health parameters - and the promotion of the circular economy.

If the UWWTD (recast) is to be successfully implemented, several significant challenges will need to be overcome, not only by wastewater operators but by all stakeholders involved.

One of the most celebrated aspects of the directive from our point of view is the introduction of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to cover the cost of micropollutant removal, setting a precedent in the implementation of the polluter pays principle in the water sector. This is a significant step towards ensuring the affordability of essential services like water while maintaining high environmental standards. The successful implementation of EPR schemes requires evaluation and control by public authorities, as well as continuous, transparent and open dialogue and cooperation among all stakeholders involved. Correctly implemented, EPR could be a game changer in a broader perspective. Not only for ethical, affordability and investment reasons, but also to build incentives for innovation and production of sustainable products.

The text mandates energy neutrality in the sector by 2045 though it misses the sector’s contribution to broader energy neutrality targets at municipal, national, and European levels.

Achieving new treatment requirements while reaching energy neutrality goals will entail significant investment and adaptation. The directive introduces flexible deadlines in achieving targets for tertiary and quaternary treatment and energy neutrality, allowing for strategic investment and optimising environmental and financial outcomes. However, how the investments are identified, planned and included in the national implementation programmes will be key for a successful implementation of the Directive, ensuring that investment needs are correctly identified and financing is ensured.

We worked closely with policymakers on this directive, from well before the publication of the European Commission’s proposal in October 2022, advocating for a holistic approach to wastewater management.

After the final votes by the Parliament and the Council, expected in autumn, and the publication by year-end, we will focus on supporting the development of secondary legislation that is crucial for the directive’s successful implementation.

In conclusion, the directive sets a challenging new standard for wastewater management in Europe. We are confident that this new iteration will ensure a cleaner and healthier future for us all.