OECD Studies on Water, Diffuse Pollution, Degraded Waters: Emerging Policy Solutions
OECD countries have struggled to adequately address diffuse water pollution. It is much easier to regulate point source industrial and municipal polluters than engage with a large number of farmers and other land-users where variable factors like climate, soil and politics come into play. But, as the report points out, the cumulative effects of diffuse water pollution can be devastating for human well-being and ecosystem health. Ultimately, they can undermine sustainable economic growth. The report also presents a risk-based policy framework to tackle this challenge. Innovative policy responses need to be replicated, adapted and scaled-up if they are to have an effect.
Read the report and the Policy Highlights
Find out how the OECD is responding to global water challenges
OECD Environmental Performance Review of New Zealand
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OECD Environmental Performance Review of Korea
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OECD Environmental Performance Review of Estonia
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Register to hook into the LIVEstream
Thursday 6 April – 13:00 (CEST)
At least half the world’s population suffers from polluted water. And the situation is set to worsen. Water pollution is on the rise due to indirect ‘diffuse’ sources of pollution from both agricultural and urban environments.
What policies can we put in place to address the diffuse water pollution challenge and reverse the trend of increasing degraded waters?
Join Hannah Leckie and Xavier Leflaive of the OECD Environment Directorate to discuss emerging solutions in OECD countries, that can guide the design and implementation of policies to control diffuse water pollution.