The EU Water Framework Directive is the result of several years of consultations between the Member States on a common integrated water management policy. The Framework Directive aims to:

- Protect all waters- rivers, lakes, coastal waters, and ground waters.

- Set ambitions objectives to ensure that all waters meet good status by 2015.

- Set up a system of management within river basins that recognises that water systems do not stop at political borders.

- Cross border co-operation between countries and all involved parties.

- Ensure active participation of all stakeholders, including NGOs and local communities, in water management activities.

- Ensure reduction and control of pollution from all sources like agriculture, industrial activity, and urban areas, etc.

- Establish water pricing policies and ensure that the polluter pays.