Targets and measures aimed at improving water quality

The goal of the "Rhine 2040" programme is good water quality. The water of the Rhine should be so clean that drinking water can be obtained from it using the simplest and most natural methods possible. Suspended matter, sediments, plants and animals should also be uncontaminated. To this end, six sub-goals were formulated, which are to be implemented, among other things, through the measures listed below.

1. Reduce nutrient inputs

Further optimise phosphorus and nitrogen removal in wastewater treatment plants
Investigate and reduce diffuse input pathways
Foster organic agriculture

2. Reduce micro-pollutant inputs by at least 30 %

Develop an assessment system
Implement measures from the recommendation for action published in 2019 in the three areas of wastewater, agriculture and industry
Improve monitoring of substances without standardised methods (non-target analytics)

3. Reduce pollutant load

Continue identification and monitoring of significant inputs
Continue reduction measures and supplement as needed

4. Improve sediment quality

Implement the measures of the sediment management plan by 2025
Update sediment management plan if necessary

5. Operate warning and alarm plan in a forward-looking manner

Evaluate annual reports
Conduct tests and cross-border exercises
Develop new Rhine flow time model until 2027

6. Reduce waste and plastic

Improve state of knowledge
Reduce inputs at the source
Foster the development of assessment methods for microplastic
Sensitize the public