Nitrates Directive

The Nitrates Directive (91/676/EEC)¹ is a core EU instrument for protecting surface water and groundwater from pollution caused by nitrates originating from agricultural activities. Its objective is to reduce existing nitrate pollution and prevent further deterioration of water quality, particularly in areas affected by intensive fertiliser use and livestock production. The directive addresses diffuse pollution at source and forms a key component of EU water protection policy.

The directive requires the identification of waters that are polluted or at risk of pollution, notably where nitrate concentrations exceed or are at risk of exceeding 50 mg/l. Land draining into these waters must be designated as Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs). Within these zones, Member States are required to establish mandatory Action Programmes that regulate fertiliser and manure application, supported by Codes of Good Agricultural Practice. A central requirement is a limit on livestock manure application, set at a maximum of 170 kg of nitrogen per hectare per year, to reduce nutrient runoff and leaching into water bodies.