REVISED METHODOLOGY OF BLACK SEA CHEMICAL STATUS UNDER WATER FRAMEWORK DIRECTIVE

The Water Framework Directive (WFD) aims to protect and optimise the quality of aquatic ecosystems and their sustainable use so as to reach a 'good state'. The concept of water status includes both 'environmental status' and 'chemical status'. The paper presents an updated methodology for the classification of the chemical status of coastal and marine transitional waters of the Romanian Black Sea coast, based on nutrients and specific pollutants (heavy metals, hydrocarbons, persistent organic pollutants). The methodology was elaborated based on data achieved during 2006-2016 and the provisions of the legislation in force. The methodology will serve the relevant institutions in order to assess the ecological status of coastal and transitional water bodies and to develop appropriate management plans.