What is the UK doing to develop EQS's for Specific Pollutants?

The UK is responsible for developing standards (EQSs?) for Specific Pollutants according to the procedure set out in the WFD. A programme has therefore been set in place to identify, prioritise and review the EQSs? for those substances identified as potential Specific Pollutants. These include substances commonly encountered when issuing environmental permits or consents as well as substances listed under earlier EU Directives such as List II under the Dangerous Substances Directive, where the UK has developed standards in the past, together with other emerging chemicals of concern.

Where required, new EQS's will be developed, based on best current knowledge, in compliance with the requirements specified in the Directive.

When EQSs? for these substances are adopted, the UK agencies will then need to ensure that these substances are managed under any programme of measures where a risk has been identified to the water body. This includes controlling inputs from point and diffuse sources and from accidental spills.