site.btaEC Initiates Legal Actions against Bulgaria on Drinking Water, Noise Directives

The European Commission (EC) started an infringement procedure against Bulgaria about incorrect transposition of Drinking Water Directive. It will also continue with proceedings on Bulgaria's failure to fulfil obligations under EU Noise Directive, reported the Commission’s press office on Wednesday.

EC reported that they are starting an infringement procedure against Bulgaria, Greece, Spain, the Netherlands, and Portugal about incorrect transposition of EU Drinking Water Directive amendments. 

The drinking water amendments concern monitoring the quality of drinking water and measures against water waste in the supply systems. National law does not correctly reflect the scope of exemptions provided in the Directive. EU Member States had to transpose the amendments to the Directive until January 12, 2023, reported the Commission. They will give mentioned countries two months to comply with the amendments before bringing forward more infringement actions.

EC also stated that they will continue with proceedings regarding Noise Directive against Bulgaria, Greece, Hungary, and Slovakia for infringing provisions on noise isolation and urban planning. The Directive requires Member States to adopt maps showing noise exposure in big towns and cities, along railway lines, main roads and around major airports. These strategic noise maps serve as a basis for defining measures to help reduce noise pollution. Member States are also required to inform the Commission of the findings of the strategic noise maps, EC said.

The Commission sent formal notice to the four Member States in October 2024 and now followed up with a Reasoned Opinion. It will give a two months to countries to comply with EU legislation before bringing the proceedings before the European Court of Justice.