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Reference.org
Water Framework Directive
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<p>The Water Framework Directive (WFD; 2000/60/EC) is an <a href="/facts/Directive_(European_Union)/KS076mKR">EU directive</a> to establish a framework for the protection of all <a href="/facts/Body_of_water/MoDAUuW4">water bodies</a> (including <a href="/facts/Marine_ecosystem/thPh931d">marine waters</a> up to one <a href="/facts/Nautical_mile/V4yJzvKw">nautical mile</a> from shore) by 2015. The WFD establishes a programme and timetable for <a href="/facts/Member_state_of_the_European_Union/hsFC1pJH">Member States</a> to set up <a href="/facts/River_basin_management_plans/4WbXl9s9">river basin management plans</a> by 2009. </p><p>The Directive's aim is for all water bodies in EU member states to achieve "good status", with 47% of EU water bodies covered by the Directive failing this standard. </p>