Author(s)

H.D. Taylor, J.L. Wallis & J.E. Ebdon

Abstract

A recently proposed revision of the European Union Directive on the quality of bathing waters sought to improve the scientific rationale for water quality management. The number of parameters to be measured would be reduced to two specific groups of faecal indicator bacteria and for the first time, values for these two parameters were to be set at levels that relate to demonstrated degrees of risk to human health. The proposed revision switched emphasis from simple monitoring of water quality to water quality management. The relevant responsible national authorities would be required to undertake ‘beach profiles’ that would evaluate the contribution of all significant sources of faecal pollution. The paper discusses recent research into novel methods fo

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