The European bathing water quality report for 2025 reveals a mixed picture, with some countries excelling in water quality while others struggle. Cyprus takes the top spot with 100% of its waters classified as excellent, followed closely by Greece, Bulgaria, and Austria. These countries have managed to maintain high standards, with a significant portion of their bathing sites meeting the EU's minimum quality standards. However, the report also highlights the challenges faced by inland waters, particularly in central Europe, which are more susceptible to short-term pollution events linked to heavy rainfall or drought. This is a critical issue that needs addressing to ensure the long-term health of these water bodies.
One of the key factors affecting bathing water quality in rivers is rapid urbanisation and pollution during the Industrial Revolution. These factors have led to degraded water quality in many of Europe's rivers, with only 47% of designated river bathing sites achieving excellent quality in 2025. The report also identifies short-term pollution events following heavy rainfall, combined sewer overflows, stormwater runoff, pollution from agriculture, and faecal inputs from wildlife and livestock as significant contributors to poor water quality. Despite these challenges, the EEA notes that the water quality of many urban rivers and water bodies has progressively recovered with the support of European water policies, and river bathing is now possible in several European cities.
In contrast, some countries are struggling with poor water quality. Estonia, the Netherlands, and France have 3% or more of their bathing waters classified as poor, while Albania has the lowest share of excellent waters at 16.8%. Spain, Slovenia, Portugal, and Croatia also show the lowest inland bathing water quality, with over 11% of their rivers and lakes classified as poor quality. These findings highlight the need for targeted efforts to improve water quality in these regions, particularly in inland waters, which are more susceptible to short-term pollution events.
In conclusion, the 2025 bathing water quality report provides valuable insights into the state of Europe's bathing waters. While some countries are excelling in water quality, others are struggling with poor water quality, particularly in inland waters. Addressing the challenges faced by inland waters and rivers is crucial to ensuring the long-term health of these water bodies and the well-being of the communities that depend on them. The report also highlights the importance of European water policies and the need for continued efforts to improve water quality across the continent.
