Commission & Belgium commit to stronger EU water laws implementation

The statement sets out shared priorities to achieve good water status across the country, along with specific regional commitments.

It was signed in Leuven by Jessika Roswall, Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy; Jo Brouns, Flemish Minister for Agriculture and the Environment; Yves Coppieters, Walloon Minister for Health and the Environment; and Ans Persoons, Brussels State Secretary responsible for water policy.

Protecting water ecosystems, restoring the water cycle and strengthening resilience to floods and droughts are central to the agreement. All three regions commit to accounting for the water needs of rivers and ecosystems when managing water scarcity, and to coordinating the removal of barriers on shared watercourses.

The statement also gives rivers more room by restoring floodplains and using nature-based solutions to reduce flood risks, support biodiversity and improve natural water retention.

The Belgian regions will also strengthen cooperation with farmers, retailers and researchers to expand the market for organic products and reduce pollution from fertilisers and pesticides. 

The agreement calls for stronger action on persistent pollutants, including PFAS and pesticides, alongside more systematic reviews of abstraction and industrial discharge permits. 

It also highlights the need to improve water efficiency, make greater use of digital tools, upgrade wastewater treatment and mobilise public and private investment.