Majority of EU Bathing Waters Rated Excellent, but Pollution Risks Remain

16 August 2025 — A new assessment from the European Commission reveals that bathing water quality across the European Union remains high, with over 85% of monitored sites classified as “excellent” for cleanliness and safety. The report focuses on bacterial contamination levels, which can cause serious illnesses if swimmers are exposed.

Coastal Waters Lead the Way

The findings show that coastal waters generally perform better than inland rivers and lakes, reflecting the benefits of stronger tides and water circulation in dispersing contaminants. Popular tourist destinations along the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts are among the top performers in terms of water quality.

Concerns Over Pollution Hotspots

While the overall picture is positive, 1.5% of EU bathing sites were rated as “poor,” indicating levels of bacteria that could pose health risks to swimmers. The report warns that pollution incidents, particularly from toxic blue-green algae blooms and chemical contamination, remain significant threats to water safety.

Advice for Swimmers

Authorities recommend that the public check local water quality advisories before swimming, especially during hot summer months when algae blooms are more common. Swimmers should also be cautious after heavy rainfall, which can wash pollutants into waterways.

Protecting Europe’s Waters

The European Commission emphasized the importance of continued investment in wastewater treatment, agricultural runoff control, and pollution monitoring to maintain and improve water quality standards. Maintaining clean bathing waters is not only vital for public health but also essential for tourism and environmental protection.