Bathing water quality analysis, management and policy: an integrated assessment for Ireland

Abstract

Every bathing season in Ireland several bathing sites are closing and receiving warnings against bathing. In this report, their water quality status is assessed, and the broader picture of each case is investigated. A database is formed including location-maps, the restrictions they were/are subject to, the official justification, past and current annual water quality status, (sub)catchment where they are located, main water bodies flowing in, the closest wastewater treatment plants with their characteristics and performance based on EU treatment standards, the closest meteorological stations and the rainfall data related with stormwater overflow events (correlation analyses) and the surrounding land cover. For each case, possible causes were discussed; the actions so far and the relevant literature are analyzed to provide key policy recommendations which are useful for the review of the European Bathing Water Directive. HIGHLIGHTS Assessment of bathing sites pollution causes, actions and policy.; Integrated databases (spatial, statistical and other data) and simple analyses using their interlinkages to assist local authorities.; Investigation and identification of pollution causes.; Continuous work constantly updated, encouraging monitoring and actions.; Useful policy review and recommendations under the European Bathing Water Directive.;

Keywords

• bathing waters
• bathing water directive
• rainfall analysis
• runoff
• stormwater overflows
• water quality