Source apportionment of nitrogen and phosphorus inputs into the aquatic environment

(2005) Source apportionment of nitrogen and phosphorus inputs into the aquatic environment. Technical Report. European Environment Agency, Copenhagen, Denmark.

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Summary

In this study, the focus has been on the nutrients nitrogen and phosphorus from land-based activities to the aquatic environment, with the primary focus on the agricultural contribution. The overall approach has been to compile results from existing source apportionment studies for the assessment. Source apportionment results from the following sources have been used: • international organisations such as transboundary river commissions and regional marine conventions; • national and regional studies; • research activities. The north-western part of Europe is generally well covered by source apportionment studies, but there is a shortage of information from the Mediterranean countries and some eastern European countries. This study is the first step in a wider framework action dealing with the assessment of nutrient inputs from agriculture and other sources into water bodies of inland waters as well as transitional, coastal and marine waters and is seen in the context of ongoing EEA work on agriculture and environment. In order to assess the effectiveness of current policies and agreements and to identify gaps, it is essential to know how nutrient inputs are distributed across sectors. Results from source apportionment studies are therefore important in the policy formulation process and in monitoring the implementation of policies and the effectiveness of measures.

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