Recent regional changes in nutrient fluxes of European surface waters

We have quantified inputs and fate of nutrients in European fresh and marine waters from 1990 to 2018. We have used the conceptual model GREEN to assess the impact of efforts on curbing nutrient pollution in European regions. In the first two decades, i.e. in the 1990s and through the start of the new millennium, nutrient inputs to waters decreased significantly. Nutrient pollution in freshwaters and to the sea largely reduced in all regions, although at different pace. However, around 2008-2010 trends in nutrient inputs changed, marking an increase in the last decade, partic-ularly from agricultural diffuse sources. In some regions, current nutrient inputs to waters are close to those estimated at the beginning of the 1990s. At the end of the study period, nutrient concentrations in freshwaters remain above thresholds congruent with good ecological status of water bodies in most downstream reaches. European policies tack-ling point sources are close to reach their maximum impact. In the face of this approaching ceiling, sustainable nutrient management on agricultural land becomes pivotal for effective nutrient control in river basins. The regional approach highlighted differences across Europe that may provide tailored opportunities to plan effective strategies for achieving environmental targets.

Automated summary

We have quantified the inputs and fate of nutrients in European fresh and marine waters from 1990 to 2018 using the GREEN model. Nutrient inputs in the 1990s and early 2000s decreased significantly, leading to a reduction of nutrient pollution in freshwater and the sea in all regions. However, from around 2008-2010, there has been an increase in nutrient inputs, particularly from agricultural diffuse sources. Sustainable nutrient management on agricultural land is crucial for effective nutrient control in river basins.