Water Framework Directive (WFD) and the "Blaues Band" Program
The German program "Blaues Band” ("Blue Belt Program”) aims to restore federal waterways, enhancing both nature and water protection. By focusing on ecological water development, the program addresses existing structural deficiencies in waterways, contributing to the achievement of good ecological status for federal waterways.
The European Framework Directive (WFD)
The European Water Framework Directive (WFD) is the primary legislation for the protection of rivers, lakes, and coastal waters within the EU. Germany has committed to the WFD's goal of ensuring that all surface water bodies achieve good ecological status by 2027, or, in the case of heavily modified waters, attain good ecological potential. To assess status of water bodies, identify stress factors, and minimize their impact, EU member states have established comprehensive monitoring systems.
Running waters in Germany face considerable pressures, primarily from nutrient input associated with agricultural activities, as well as from extensive structural modifications and runoff management practices. These pressures have led to the loss of many natural structures of running waters, particularly in major rivers like the Rhine, Danube, Elbe, and Weser, which were heavily modified over 150 years ago to support transport of goods and subsequently designated as federal waterways. Although ecological restoration efforts are urgently needed, fully restoring these rivers to their original natural state is virtually impossible due to the essential requirements for navigation and commercial shipping.
Measures within the Water Framework Directive and the program "Blaues Band" (Blue Belt)
The Federal Program "Blaues Band Deutschland" ("Blue Belt Germany")
The federal program “Blaues Band Deutschland” ("Blue Belt Germany") aims to increase investments in the restoration of federal waterways by 2050, prioritizing the conservation and revitalization of aquatic and floodplain ecosystems. Achieving these goals requires extensive measures in ecological water management. Where possible, rivers should be granted more space to support natural processes, including reconnecting floodplains and backwaters, as well as partially or fully dismantling structures that limit flow. Reshaping riverbanks and restoring riverbeds are also priorities to foster more natural habitats. Improved hydromorphological conditions, like the creation of shallow water areas, will support native species, which are key indicators in the ecological assessment of freshwater ecosystems. Furthermore, abandoned channels and the floodplain itself play a crucial role in nutrient retention, contributing to water purification. Consequently, the initiatives of the “Blaues Band” program serve both, water protection and nature conservation.
Established by the Federal Ministry of Transport and the Federal Ministry for the Environment, the "Blaues Band Germany" program outlines a framework for restoring predominantly large running waters and floodplains. Within the "BBG Expert Group," six specialized authorities are collaborating to develop the necessary basics for creating an effective biotope network for waterways. The implementation of projects is primarily overseen by waterways and shipping offices, along with the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation. Furthermore, municipalities, associations, and other stakeholders actively participate in floodplain projects under the funding program. The success of this initiative also depends on the cooperation of federal states, various interest groups, and the public.
Photo Gallery
Sources
Environmental Federal Agency: The Blue Ribbon and the Water Framework Directive