Exemptions

Last update: 2026-05-27

Next planned update: 2026-06-15

Warning

See Clarifications requested by Member States

Purpose and overview

This section revises the reporting of information related to Exemptions in the 2nd and 3rd cycle of reporting of the Water Framework Directive River Basin Management Plans.
It also presents a proposal for simplifying the electronic reporting in the 4th cycle.

Reporting of exemptions - 3rd cycle

• The information related to exemptions in the surface water methodologies schema (SWExemption class, see Figure 35) will not be requested in the 4th cycle structured data reporting (i.e. it is provided only in the RBMP documents).

• The information related to exemptions in the groundwater water methodologies schema (GWExemption class, see Figure 36). will not be requested in the 4th cycle structured data reporting (i.e. it is provided only in the RBMP documents).

        ---
config:
  class:
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---
classDiagram 
class SWExemptions ["«XSDcomplexType»
SWMET::SWExemptions"]{
  «XSDelement»
  + swExemption44Impact: SignificantImpactType_Enum [1..*]
  + swExemption44Driver: Driver_Enum [1..*]
  + swExemption45Impact: SignificantImpactType_Enum [1..*]
  + swExemption45Driver: Driver_Enum [1..*]
  + swDisproportionateCost: YesNoCode_Enum
  + swDisproportionateCostScale: GeographicalScale_Enum [0..*]
  + swDisproportionateCostAnalysis: DisproportionateCostAnalysis_Enum [0..*]
  + swDisproportionateCostAlternativeFinancing: DisproportionateCostAlternativeFinancing_Enum [0..*]
  + swDisproportionateCostOtherEULegislation: YesNoCode_Enum [0..1]
  + swTechnicalInfeasibility: TechnicalInfeasibility_Enum [1..*]
  + swNaturalConditions: SWNaturalConditions_Enum [1..*]
  + swExemption46: Exemption46_Enum [1..*]
  + swExemption47: Exemption47_Enum [1..*]
  + swExemptionsTransboundary: YesNoNotApplicable_Union_Enum
  + swExemptionsReference: ReferenceType [1..*]
  + driversSWExemptionsReference: ReferenceType [1..*]
}

    

Figure 35 SWMET schema, SWExemptions class - 3rd cycle - OBSOLETE

        ---
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  class:
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classDiagram 
class GWExemptions["«XSDcomplexType» 
GWMET::GWExemptions"]{
  «XSDelement»
  + gwExemption44Impact: SignificantImpactType_Enum [1..*]
  + gwExemption44Driver: Driver_Enum [1..*]
  + gwExemption45Impact: SignificantImpactType_Enum [1..*]
  + gwExemption45Driver: Driver_Enum [1..*]
  + gwDisproportionateCost: YesNoCode_Enum
  + gwDisproportionateCostScale: GeographicalScale_Enum [0..*]
  + gwDisproportionateCostAnalysis: DisproportionateCostAnalysis_Enum [0..*]
  + gwDisproportionateCostAlternativeFinancing: DisproportionateCostAlternativeFinancing_Enum [0..*]
  + gwDisproportionateCostOtherEULegislation: YesNoCode_Enum [0..1]
  + gwTechnicalInfeasibility: TechnicalInfeasibility_Enum [1..*]
  + gwNaturalConditions: GWNaturalConditions_Enum [1..*]
  + gwExemption46: Exemption46_Enum [1..*]
  + gwExemption47: Exemption47_Enum [1..*]
  + gwExemptionsTransboundary: YesNoNotApplicable_Union_Enum
  + gwExemptionsReference: ReferenceType [1..*]
  + driversGWExemptionsReference: ReferenceType [1..*]
}

    

Figure 36 GWMET schema, GWExemptions class - 3rd cycle - OBSOLETE

Reporting of exemptions - 4th cycle

The duplicate reporting of the ecological exemptions - both at surface water body level and at quality element level - is removed in the revised model for the 4th cycle reporting

The reporting of ecological, chemical and quantitative exemptions is aligned into tables with a similar structure:

• The water body to which the exemption applies is always identified.

• For ecological exemptions, the quality element is identified.

• For chemical exemptions, the substance is identified.

• For exemptions associated with protected areas where specific objectives were set but not met, the protected area is identified.

The remaining attributes (see Figure 37) identify:

• the exemption type (exemptionType),

• the reason why the exemption is applied (exemptionRationale),

• the expected exemption period (exemptionPeriod) until good status is achieved,

• and the significant pressure causing failure, if applicable (exemptionPressureType).

Reference to additional information in the RBMPs documentation can be provided via the exemptionReference.

The exemptionPeriod replaces the following attributes requested in the 3rd cycle:

• swEcologicalStatusOrPotentialExpectedAchievementDate

• swChemicalStatusExpectedAchievementDate

• gwChemicalStatusExpectedAchievementDate

• gwQuantitativeStatusExpectedAchievementDate See Figure 47.

        %%{init: {'theme': 'neutral'}}%%
classDiagram
class Exemption ["«Abstract»
Exemption"]{
    / exemptionType : ExemptionType
    + exemptionRationale : ExemptionRationale [1..n]
    + exemptionPeriod : ExemptionPeriod
    + exemptionReference : referenceIdentifier [0..1]
    + exemptionPressureType : PressureType [0..n]
}
    

Figure 37 Exemption - 4th cycle - Abstract pattern for illustrative purposes

Surface water ecological exemptions by quality element

Ecological exemptions are only reported at quality element level, avoiding duplication.
Ecological exemptions are reported using the table in Figure 38.

        ---
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---
classDiagram
class SWEcologicalExemption{
    + euSurfaceWaterBodyCode: wiseIdentifier
    + qeCode: QualityElement 
    / exemptionType: ExemptionType
    + exemptionRationale: ExemptionRationale [1..n]
    + exemptionPeriod: ExemptionPeriod
    + exemptionReference: referenceCode [0..1]
    + significantPressureType: PressureType [1..n]
}


classDef default fill:white,stroke:#000;
classDef forFixing fill:white,stroke:#f00;
    

Figure 38 Surface Water Body - Ecological Exemption - 4th cycle

The diagram below presents the applicability criteria for the different exemption types (Figure 39).

        ---
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  layout: dagre
  theme: neutral
---
flowchart LR

%% Ecological Status Exemptions - Quality Elements
title@{ shape: braces, label: "Surface Water <br/>Ecological Status Exemptions <br/> at Quality Element level, <br/> for QE1% and QE3%" }

%% Defining the nodes
		
initial([start])
final([end])

%% duplicate nodes for just for flowchart readability
hasNoApplicableExemption_1("no exemption <br/> applicable"):::stateRed
hasNoApplicableExemption_2("no exemption <br/> required"):::stateBlue
hasNoApplicableExemption_3("no exemption <br/> applicable"):::stateRed
hasNoApplicableExemption_4("no exemption <br/> applicable"):::stateRed

hasExemption44n("Article 4(4) <br/> Extension of deadline <br/> (natural conditions)"):::state
hasExemption45("Article 4(5) <br/> Less stringent objectives"):::state
hasExemption46("Article 4(6) <br/> Temporary deterioration"):::state

hasExemption47("Article 4(7) <br/> New modification/project"):::state
hasExemption47a("Article 4(7a) <br/> Short-term impact"):::state
hasExemption47b("Article 4(7b) <br/> Relocation of water or sediment"):::state
hasExemption154("UWWTD Article 15(4) <br/> Domestic wastewater load <br/>from new/refurbished UWWT"):::state

%% Defining the decisions

isStatusIn2027{"Ecological Status <br/> or Potential <br/> in 2027?"}
isDeteriorationExpected{"Deterioration <br/> expected <br/> beyond 2027?"}
isDeteriorationObserved{"Deterioration <br/> observed <br/> in 2027 or earlier?"}
isDeteriorationCause{"Is deterioration <br/> caused by?"}
isGoodStatusAchievable{"Is good status <br/> achievable?"}
isUnfeasibleOrCostly{"Are measures <br/> unfeasible or <br/> disproportionately costly?"}
isDelayDueToNaturalConditions{"Delay due <br/>to natural conditions?"}

%% Flow to TERMINATORS

initial --> isStatusIn2027
hasNoApplicableExemption_1 --> final
hasNoApplicableExemption_2 --> final
hasNoApplicableExemption_3 --> final
hasNoApplicableExemption_4 --> final

hasExemption47 --> final 
hasExemption47a --> final 
hasExemption47b --> final 
hasExemption154 --> final 
hasExemption46 --> final 
hasExemption45 --> final 
hasExemption44n --> final 

%% THE IMPORTANT PART STARTS HERE

%% NO EXEMPTION POSSIBLE - If the status is unknown, then exemptions cannot be reported
isStatusIn2027 ==>|"unknown"|hasNoApplicableExemption_1

%% NO EXEMPTION NEEDED - if the status is not failing and no deterioration is expected, then no exemption is needed
isStatusIn2027 ==>|"not failing <br/>[ high <br/> OR maximum <br/> OR good ]"|isDeteriorationExpected
isDeteriorationExpected ==>|no|hasNoApplicableExemption_2

%% ARTICLE 4(7) - DETERIORATION DUE TO NEW MODIFICATION OR PROJECT
isDeteriorationExpected ==> |yes|isDeteriorationCause

isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[new modification <br/> OR sustainable human development]"|hasExemption47
isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[short-term impact]"|hasExemption47a
isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[relocation of <br/>water or sediment]"|hasExemption47b
isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[increased load <br/>from new/refurbished UWWT]"|hasExemption154
isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[other causes]"|hasNoApplicableExemption_3

%% ARTICLE 4(6) - DETERIORATION DUE TO ACCIDENTS OR FORCE MAJEURE OR NATURAL CAUSES
isStatusIn2027 ==>|"failing <br/> [moderate OR <br/> poor OR <br/> bad OR <br/>lessThanGood ]"|isDeteriorationObserved
isDeteriorationObserved ==>|"yes <br/>[other causes]"|isDeteriorationCause
isDeteriorationObserved ==>|"yes <br/>[accidents <br/>OR force majeure <br/>OR natural causes]"|hasExemption46
isDeteriorationObserved ==>|no|isGoodStatusAchievable

%% ARTICLE 4(5) - LESS STRINGENT OBJECTIVES
isGoodStatusAchievable ==>|no|isUnfeasibleOrCostly
isUnfeasibleOrCostly ==> |yes|hasExemption45
isUnfeasibleOrCostly ==> |no|hasNoApplicableExemption_4

%% ARTICLE 4(4) EXTENSION OF DEADLINE - NATURAL CONDITIONS
isGoodStatusAchievable ==>|yes|isDelayDueToNaturalConditions
isDelayDueToNaturalConditions ==>|no|hasNoApplicableExemption_4
isDelayDueToNaturalConditions ==>|yes|hasExemption44n

%% styling
classDef state stroke-width:4px,fill:transparent
classDef stateRed stroke:red,fill:transparent
classDef stateBlue stroke:blue,fill:transparent
    

Figure 39 Surface Water Body - Ecological Exemption Decision Tree - 4th cycle

The following conditions apply:

1. Ecological exemptions are not reported for Territorial Waters.

2. Ecological exemptions are not reported for hydromorphological quality elements.

3. Ecological exemptions are not reported for QE3-3 (see Surface water chemical exemptions by pollutant).

4. Ecological exemptions are not reported for quality elements not used in the ecological status assessment (because they are not applicable to a given water category or a given national type).

5. Reporting is mandatory for biological quality elements in moderate, poor or bad status or potential.

6. Reporting is mandatory for physico-chemical quality elements is less than good status or potential.

7. Exemptions are not applicable to quality elements with unknown status.

8. For short-term impacts over biological quality elements, the maximum exemption period is three years.

9. For short-term impacts over physico-chemical quality elements, the maximum exemption period is one year.

10. Exemptions related to relocation of water or sediment are not applicable to biological quality elements.

11. Exemptions under the Groundwater Directive are not allowed for surface waters.

See code

1. Not allowed: waterBodyCategory = 'TeW'

2. Not allowed: qeCode LIKE 'QE2%'

3. Not allowed: qeCode = 'QE3-3'

4. Not allowed: qeStatusOrPotentialValue = 'notApplicable'

5. Mandatory: qeCode LIKE 'QE1%' AND qeStatusOrPotentialValue in ('3','4','5')

6. Mandatory: qeCode LIKE 'QE3%' AND qeStatusOrPotentialValue = '3'

7. Not allowed: qeStatusOrPotentialValue = 'unknown' AND ISNULL(exemptionType,'') =! 'notApplicable'

8. Not allowed: qeCode LIKE 'QE1%' AND exemptionType = 'article47a_shortTermImpact' AND exemptionPeriod NOT IN ('upToOneYear','upToThreeYears','until2027')

9. Not allowed: qeCode LIKE 'QE3%' AND exemptionType = 'article47a_shortTermImpact' AND exemptionPeriod NOT IN ('upToOneYear','until2027')

10. Not allowed: qeCode LIKE 'QE1%' AND exemptionType = 'article47b_relocationOfWaterOrSediment'

11. Not allowed: exemptionType = 'gwdArticle63_exemptionOfMeasures'

Surface water chemical exemptions by pollutant

Chemical exemptions are reported using the table in Figure 40.
In the 4th cycle of reporting, exemptions associated with river basin specific pollutants are reported as as chemical exemptions, and not as exemptions associated with the quality element “QE3-3 - River Basin Specific Pollutants”.

        ---
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---
classDiagram
class SWChemicalExemption{
    + euSurfaceWaterBodyCode: wiseIdentifier
    + swPollutantCode: Substance
    / exemptionType: ExemptionType
    + exemptionRationale: ExemptionRationale [1..n]
    + exemptionPeriod: ExemptionPeriod
    + exemptionReference: referenceCode [0..1]
    + significantPressureType: PressureType [1..n]
}

classDef default fill:white,stroke:#000;
classDef forFixing fill:white,stroke:#f00;
    

Figure 40 Surface Water Body - Chemical Exemption - 4th cycle

The diagram below presents the applicability criteria for the different exemption types (Figure 41).

• In 2027, exemptions are not yet required, if the pollutant is causing failure to achieve good status AND:

  • the pollutant is a 2026 Priority Substance,

  • the pollutant is a 2008 or 2013 Priority Substance for which the EQS was made more strict in 2026

• Article 4(7) exemptions may be applicable for indirect deterioration of chemical status, where it is the indirect result of modifications to physical characteristics (Article 4(7), first indent).

        ---
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flowchart LR

%% Surface Water Chemical Exemptions and Groundwater Chemical Exemptions
title@{ shape: braces, label: "Surface Water <br/>Chemical Exemptions <br/>and Groundwater <br/>Chemical Exemptions" }

%% Defining the nodes
		
initial([start])
final([end])

%% duplicate nodeS for just for flowchart readability
hasNoApplicableExemption_1("no exemption <br/>required"):::stateBlue
hasNoApplicableExemption_2("no exemption <br/>applicable"):::stateRed
hasNoApplicableExemption_3("no exemption <br/>required"):::stateBlue
hasNoApplicableExemption_4("no exemption <br/>applicable"):::stateRed
hasNoApplicableExemption_5("no exemption <br/>applicable"):::stateRed
hasNoApplicableExemption_6("no exemption <br/>applicable"):::stateRed

hasExemption44("Article 4(4) <br/> Extension of deadline <br/> (natural conditions)"):::state
hasExemption45("Article 4(5) <br/> Less stringent objectives"):::state
hasExemption46("Article 4(6) <br/> Temporary deterioration"):::state

hasExemption47("Article 4(7) <br/> New modification/project"):::state
hasExemption47a("Article 4(7a) <br/> Short-term impact"):::state
hasExemption47b("Article 4(7b) <br/> Relocation of water or sediment"):::state
hasExemption154("UWWTD Article 15(4) <br/> Domestic wastewater load <br/>from new/refurbished UWWT"):::state

%% Defining the decisions

%% WE NEED THE LISTS!
is2026Substance{"2026 <br/>priority substance?"}
is2013Substance{"2013 <br/>priority substance?"}

isCausingFailureIn2027{"Causing failure <br/> in 2027?"}
isDeteriorationExpected{"Deterioration <br/>expected <br/> beyond 2027?"}
isDeteriorationObserved{"Deterioration <br/>observed <br/> in 2027 or earlier?"}
isDeteriorationCause{"Is deterioration <br/> caused by?"}
isGoodStatusAchievable{"Is good status <br/> achievable?"}
isUnfeasibleOrCostly{"Are measures <br/>unfeasible or <br/>disproportionately costly?"}
isDelayDueToNaturalConditions{"Delay due <br/>to natural conditions?"}
isDelayDueToFeasibilityOrCost{"Delay due <br/>to technical feasibility <br/>OR disproportionate cost?"}

%% Flow to TERMINATORS

initial --> is2026Substance
hasNoApplicableExemption_1 --> final
hasNoApplicableExemption_2 --> final
hasNoApplicableExemption_3 --> final
hasNoApplicableExemption_4 --> final
hasNoApplicableExemption_5 --> final
hasNoApplicableExemption_6 --> final

hasExemption47 --> final 
hasExemption47a --> final 
hasExemption47b --> final 
hasExemption154 --> final 
hasExemption46 --> final 
hasExemption45 --> final 
hasExemption44 --> final 

%% THE IMPORTANT PART STARTS HERE

%% EXEMPTIONS DON'T APPLY TO 2026 SUBSTANCES
is2026Substance ==> |yes| hasNoApplicableExemption_1
is2026Substance ==> |no| isCausingFailureIn2027

%% NO EXEMPTION POSSIBLE - If the status is unknown, then exemptions cannot be reported
isCausingFailureIn2027 ==> |unknown| hasNoApplicableExemption_2

%% NO EXEMPTION NEEDED - if the status is not failing and no deterioration is expected, then no exemption is needed
isCausingFailureIn2027 ==> |no| isDeteriorationExpected
isDeteriorationExpected ==> |no| hasNoApplicableExemption_3

%% ARTICLE 4(7) - DETERIORATION DUE TO NEW MODIFICATION OR PROJECT
isDeteriorationExpected ==> |yes|isDeteriorationCause

isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[new modification <br/> OR sustainable human development]"|hasExemption47
isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[short-term impact]"|hasExemption47a
isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[relocation of <br/>water or sediment]"|hasExemption47b
isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[increased load <br/>from new/refurbished UWWT]"|hasExemption154
isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[other causes]"|hasNoApplicableExemption_4

%% ARTICLE 4(6) - DETERIORATION DUE TO ACCIDENTS OR FORCE MAJEURE OR NATURAL CAUSES
isCausingFailureIn2027 ==> |yes| isDeteriorationObserved
isDeteriorationObserved ==>|"yes <br/>[other causes]"|isDeteriorationCause
isDeteriorationObserved ==>|"yes <br/>[accidents <br/>OR force majeure <br/>OR natural causes]"|hasExemption46
isDeteriorationObserved ==>|no|isGoodStatusAchievable

%% ARTICLE 4(5) - LESS STRINGENT OBJECTIVES
isGoodStatusAchievable ==>|no|isUnfeasibleOrCostly
isUnfeasibleOrCostly ==> |yes|hasExemption45
isUnfeasibleOrCostly ==> |no|hasNoApplicableExemption_5

%% ARTICLE 4(4) EXTENSION OF DEADLINE - NATURAL CONDITIONS
isGoodStatusAchievable ==> |yes| isDelayDueToNaturalConditions
isDelayDueToNaturalConditions ==> |yes| hasExemption44

%% ARTICLE 4(5) EXTENSION OF DEADLINE - FEASIBILITY OR COST - ONLY FOR 2013 SUBSTANCES
isDelayDueToNaturalConditions ==> |no| isDelayDueToFeasibilityOrCost
isDelayDueToFeasibilityOrCost ==> |yes| is2013Substance

is2013Substance ==> |yes| hasExemption44
is2013Substance ==> |no| hasNoApplicableExemption_6

isDelayDueToFeasibilityOrCost ==> |no| hasNoApplicableExemption_6

%% styling
classDef state stroke-width:4px,fill:transparent
classDef stateRed stroke:red,fill:transparent
classDef stateBlue stroke:blue,fill:transparent
    

Figure 41 Surface Water Body - Chemical Exemption Decision Tree - 4th cycle

The following conditions apply:

1. Reporting is mandatory if the pollutant is a 2008 or 2013 Priority Substance and the pollutant is causing failure to achieve good status.

2. Reporting is mandatory if the pollutant is a river basin specific pollutant causing failure to achieve good status.

3. Exemptions are not applicable to pollutants with unknown status.

4. In 2027, exemptions are not yet required, if the pollutant is a 2026 Priority Substance (or a substance for which a stricter EQS was set in 2023) and the pollutant is causing failure to achieve good status.

5. In 2027, Article 4(4) exemptions due to technical feasibility or disproportionate cost are only applicable if the pollutant is a 2013 Priority Substance (or a substance for which a stricter EQS was set in 2013).

6. For short-term impacts, the maximum exemption period is one year.

7. Exemptions under the Groundwater Directive are not allowed for surface waters.

See code

1. Mandatory: swPollutantCode in ({list-of-2008-or-2013-priority-substances}) AND swPollutantCausingFailure in '3'

2. Mandatory: swPollutantCode in ({list-of-river-basin-specific-pollutants}) AND swPollutantCausingFailure in '3'

3. Not allowed: swPollutantCausingFailure = 'unknown' AND ISNULL(exemptionType,'') =! 'notApplicable'

4. Not required: swPollutantCode in ({list-of-2026-priority-substances}) AND exemptionType IS NOT NULL

5. Not allowed: swPollutantCode in ({list-of-2013-priority-substances}) AND ExemptionRationale IN ('article44_technicalFeasibility','article44_disproportionateCost')

6. Not allowed: exemptionType = 'article47a_shortTermImpact' AND exemptionPeriod NOT IN ('upToOneYear','until2027')

7. Not allowed: exemptionType = 'gwdArticle63_exemptionOfMeasures'

Todo

Exemptions - Surface water chemical exemptions by pollutant

EEA Water to provide list of substances under each of the categories (e.g. 2026 PS, 2013 PS, 2008 PS, has2026EQS).

Surface water related protected area exemptions

Specific objectives may be expressed in terms of WFD Water quality elements for water bodies associated with some types of protected areas:

• Shellfish designated waters

• Drinking water protection areas

• Natura2000 protected sites included in the WFD register of protected areas

If the specific objectives have been expressed in terms of WFD quality elements, and have not been met, then exemptions may be reported. (Note that the euProtectedAreaCode value is only requested for Natura2000 sites.)

Based on the data reported in the 3rd cycle, it is likely that the number of exemptions is relatively low. Therefore the attributes of related to exemptions were simply added to the SWAssociatedProtectedArea table (Figure 42).

        ---
config:
  class:
    hideEmptyMembersBox: true
  layout: dagre
  theme: neutral
---
classDiagram
class SWAssociatedProtectedArea{
	+ euSurfaceWaterBodyCode: wiseIdentifier
	+ euProtectedAreaType: ProtectedAreaType 
	+ euProtectedAreaCode: wiseIdentifier [0..1]
	+ protectedAreaObjectivesSet: YesNo
	+ protectedAreaObjectivesMet: YesNoUnknownInapplicable
	/ exemptionType: ExemptionType [0..1]
	+ exemptionRationale: ExemptionRationale [0..n]
	+ exemptionPeriod: ExemptionPeriod [0..1]
	+ exemptionReference: referenceCode [0..1]
	   } 

classDef default fill:white,stroke:#000;
classDef forFixing fill:white,stroke:#f00;
    

Figure 42 Surface Water Body - Associated Protected Area Exemption - 4th cycle

Todo

Exemptions - Surface water related protected area exemptions

DG ENV to provide draft flowchart and quality control criteria for Surface water related protected area exemptions.

Groundwater chemical exemptions by pollutant

Chemical exemptions are reported using the table in Figure 43.

        ---
config:
  class:
    hideEmptyMembersBox: true
  layout: dagre
  theme: neutral
---
classDiagram
class GWChemicalExemption{
	+ euGroundWaterBodyCode: wiseIdentifier
	+ gwPollutantCode: Parameter
	/ exemptionType: ExemptionType
	+ exemptionRationale: ExemptionRationale [1..n]
	+ exemptionPeriod: ExemptionPeriod
	+ exemptionReference: referenceCode [0..1]
	+ significantPressureType: PressureType [1..n]
}

classDef default fill:white,stroke:#000;
classDef forFixing fill:white,stroke:#f00;
    

Figure 43 Groundwater Body - Chemical Exemption - 4th cycle

The following conditions apply:

1. Reporting is mandatory if the pollutant is a 2008 or 2013 Priority Substance and the pollutant is causing failure to achieve good status.

2. Reporting is mandatory if the pollutant is a groundwater pollutant (or indicator of pollution) causing failure to achieve good status.

3. Exemptions are not applicable to pollutants with unknown status.

4. In 2027, exemptions are not yet required, if the pollutant is a 2026 Priority Substance (or a substance for which a stricter EQS was set in 2023) and the pollutant is causing failure to achieve good status.

5. In 2027, Article 4(4) exemptions due to technical feasibility or disproportionate cost are only applicable if the pollutant is a 2013 Priority Substance (or a substance for which a stricter EQS was set in 2013).

6. For short-term impacts, the maximum exemption period is one year.

See code

1. Mandatory: gwPollutantCode in ({list-of-2008-or-2013-priority-substances}) AND gwPollutantCausingFailure in '3'

2. Mandatory: gwPollutantCode in ({list-of-other-groundwater-pollutants}) AND gwPollutantCausingFailure in '3'

3. Not allowed: gwPollutantCausingFailure = 'unknown' AND ISNULL(exemptionType,'') =! 'notApplicable'

4. Not required: gwPollutantCode in ({list-of-2026-priority-substances}) AND exemptionType IS NOT NULL

5. Not allowed: gwPollutantCode in ({list-of-2013-priority-substances}) AND ExemptionRationale IN ('article44_technicalFeasibility','article44_disproportionateCost')

6. Not allowed: exemptionType = 'article47a_shortTermImpact' AND exemptionPeriod NOT IN ('upToOneYear','until2027')

Article 4(7) exemptions may be applicable for indirect deterioration of chemical status, where it is the indirect result of alterations to levels of groundwater (Article 4(7), first indent).

With the necessary adaptations, the diagram with the criteria applicable to surface water chemical exemptions (Figure 41) is also applicable to groundwater pollutants and indicators of pollution.

Todo

Exemptions - Groundwater chemical exemptions by pollutant

DG ENV to provide draft flowchart and quality control criteria:

• for the cases where GWD Article 6(3) is applicable

Groundwater quantitative exemptions

Quantitative exemptions are reported using the table in Figure 44.

        ---
config:
  class:
    hideEmptyMembersBox: true
  layout: dagre
  theme: neutral
---
classDiagram
class GWQuantitativeExemption{
	+ euGroundWaterBodyCode: wiseIdentifier
	/ exemptionType: ExemptionType
	+ exemptionRationale: ExemptionRationale [1..n]
	+ exemptionPeriod: ExemptionPeriod
	+ exemptionReference: referenceCode [0..1]
	+ significantPressureType: PressureType [1..n]
}

classDef default fill:white,stroke:#000;
classDef forFixing fill:white,stroke:#f00;
    

Figure 44 Groundwater Body - Quantitative Exemption - 4th cycle

The following conditions apply:

1. Reporting is mandatory if the water body is in poor quantitative status

2. Exemptions are not applicable to water bodies with unknown quantitative status.

3. For short-term impacts, the maximum exemption period is one year.

4. Exemptions related to relocation of water or sediment are not applicable quantitative status.

5. Exemptions related to the recast UWWTD are not applicable quantitative status.

6. Exemptions under the Groundwater Directive Article 6(3) are not allowed for quantitative status.

See code

1. Mandatory: gwQuantitativeStatusValue = '3'

2. Not allowed: gwQuantitativeStatusValue = 'unknown' AND ISNULL(exemptionType,'') =! 'notApplicable'

3. Not allowed: exemptionType = 'article47a_shortTermImpact' AND exemptionPeriod NOT IN ('upToOneYear','until2027')

4. Not allowed: exemptionType = 'article47b_relocationOfWaterOrSediment'

5. Not allowed: exemptionType = 'uwwtdArticle154_domesticUrbanWasteWater'

6. Not allowed: exemptionType = 'gwdArticle63_exemptionOfMeasures'

Todo

Exemptions - Exemptions under the Groundwater Directive Article 6(3) are not allowed for quantitative status.
ENV to confirm that this exclusion also applies in the 4th cycle.

The diagram below presents the applicability criteria for the different exemption types (Figure 45).

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---

flowchart LR

%% Groundwater Quantitative Status Exemptions
title@{ shape: braces, label: "Groundwater Quantitative <br/>Status Exemptions" }

%% Defining the nodes
		
initial([start])
final([end])

%% duplicate nodeS for just for flowchart readability
hasNoApplicableExemption_1("no exemption <br/>applicable"):::stateRed
hasNoApplicableExemption_2("no exemption <br/>required"):::stateBlue
hasNoApplicableExemption_3("no exemption <br/>applicable"):::stateRed

hasExemption44n("Article 4(4) <br/> Extension of deadline (natural conditions)"):::state
hasExemption45("Article 4(5) <br/> Less stringent objectives"):::state
hasExemption46("Article 4(6) <br/> Temporary deterioration"):::state
hasExemption47("Article 4(7) <br/> New modification/project"):::state
hasExemption47a("Article 4(7a) <br/> Short-term impact"):::state

%% Defining the decisions

isQuantitativeStatusIn2027{"Quantitative Status <br/>in 2027?"}
isDeteriorationExpected{"Deterioration <br/>expected <br/>beyond 2027?"}
isDeteriorationObserved{"Deterioration <br/>observed <br/>in 2027 or earlier?"}
isDeteriorationCause{"Is deterioration <br/> caused by?"}
isGoodStatusAchievable{"Is good status <br/>achievable?"}
isUnfeasibleOrCostly{"Are measures <br/>unfeasible or <br/>disproportionately costly?"}
isDelayDueToNaturalConditions{"Delay due <br/>to natural conditions?"}

%% Flow to TERMINATORS

initial --> isQuantitativeStatusIn2027
hasNoApplicableExemption_1 --> final
hasNoApplicableExemption_2 --> final
hasNoApplicableExemption_3 --> final
hasExemption47 --> final 
hasExemption47a --> final 
hasExemption46 --> final 
hasExemption45 --> final 
hasExemption44n --> final 

%% THE IMPORTANT PART STARTS HERE

%% NO EXEMPTION POSSIBLE - If the status is unknown, then exemptions cannot be reported
isQuantitativeStatusIn2027 ==>|unknown|hasNoApplicableExemption_1

%% NO EXEMPTION NEEDED - if the status is not failing and no deterioration is expected, then no exemption is needed
isQuantitativeStatusIn2027 ==>|not failing|isDeteriorationExpected
isDeteriorationExpected ==>|no|hasNoApplicableExemption_2

%% ARTICLE 4(7) - DETERIORATION DUE TO NEW MODIFICATION OR PROJECT
isDeteriorationExpected ==> |yes|isDeteriorationCause
isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[new modification <br/> OR sustainable human development]"|hasExemption47
isDeteriorationCause ==> |"[short-term impact]"|hasExemption47a

%% ARTICLE 4(6) - DETERIORATION DUE TO ACCIDENTS OR FORCE MAJEURE OR NATURAL CAUSES
isQuantitativeStatusIn2027 ==>|failing|isDeteriorationObserved
isDeteriorationObserved ==>|"yes <br/>[other causes]"|isDeteriorationCause
isDeteriorationObserved ==>|"yes <br/>[accidents <br/>OR force majeure <br/>OR natural causes]"|hasExemption46
isDeteriorationObserved ==>|no|isGoodStatusAchievable

%% ARTICLE 4(5) - LESS STRINGENT OBJECTIVES
isGoodStatusAchievable ==>|no|isUnfeasibleOrCostly
isUnfeasibleOrCostly ==> |yes|hasExemption45
isUnfeasibleOrCostly ==> |no|hasNoApplicableExemption_3

%% ARTICLE 4(4) EXTENSION OF DEADLINE - NATURAL CONDITIONS
isGoodStatusAchievable ==>|yes|isDelayDueToNaturalConditions

%% ARTICLE 4(5) EXTENSION OF DEADLINE - FEASIBILITY OR COST - NO EXEMPTION POSSIBLE
isDelayDueToNaturalConditions ==>|no|hasNoApplicableExemption_3
isDelayDueToNaturalConditions ==>|yes|hasExemption44n

%% styling
classDef state stroke-width:4px,fill:transparent
classDef stateRed stroke:red,fill:transparent
classDef stateBlue stroke:blue,fill:transparent
    

Figure 45 Surface Water Body - Quantitative Exemption Decision Tree - 4th cycle

Groundwater related protected area exemptions

Specific objectives may be set for water bodies associated with some types of protected areas:

• Drinking water protection areas

• Natura 2000 protected sites included in the WFD register of protected areas

If the specific objectives have not been met, then exemptions may be reported.

(Note that the euProtectedAreaCode value is only requested for Natura 2000 sites.)

Based on the data reported in the 3rd cycle, it is likely that the number of exemptions is relatively low. Therefore the attributes of related to exemptions were simply added to the GWAssociatedProtectedArea table (Figure 46).

Todo

Exemptions: Groundwater related protected area exemptions

DG ENV to provide draft flowchart and quality control criteria

        ---
config:
  class:
    hideEmptyMembersBox: true
  layout: dagre
  theme: neutral
---
classDiagram
class GWAssociatedProtectedArea{
	+ euGroundWaterBodyCode: wiseIdentifier
	+ euProtectedAreaType: ProtectedAreaType
	+ euProtectedAreaCode: wiseIdentifier [0..1]
	+ protectedAreaObjectivesSet: YesNo
	+ protectedAreaObjectivesMet: YesNoUnknownInapplicable
	/ exemptionType: ExemptionType [0..1]
	+ exemptionRationale: ExemptionRationale [0..n]
	+ exemptionPeriod: ExemptionPeriod [0..1]
	+ exemptionReference: referenceCode [0..1]
	   } 

classDef default fill:white,stroke:#000;
classDef forFixing fill:white,stroke:#f00;
    

Figure 46 Groundwater Body - Associated Protected Area Exemption - 4th cycle

Codelists associated with the Exemption tables

Codelists associated with the reporting of exemptions are presented in Figure 47.

        ---
config:
  class:
    hideEmptyMembersBox: true
  layout: dagre
  theme: neutral
---
classDiagram
class ExemptionType{
    <<enumeration>>
    article44_extensionOfDeadline
    article45_lessStringentObjectives
    article46_temporaryDeterioration
    article47_newModificationOrProject
    article47a_shortTermImpact
    article47b_relocationOfWaterOrSediment
    uwwtdArticle154_domesticUrbanWasteWater
    gwdArticle63_exemptionOfMeasures
    notApplicable
    }

class ExemptionRationale{
    <<enumeration>>
    article44_technicalFeasibility
    article44_disproportionateCost
    article44_naturalConditions
    article45_feasibility
    article45_disproportionateCost
    article46_naturalCauses
    article46_forceMajeure
    article46_accidents
    article47_newModification
    article47_sustainableHumanDevelopment
    gwdArticle63_accidentsExceptionalCircumstances
    gwdArticle63_artificialRechargeAugmentation
    gwdArticle63_directDischarges
    gwdArticle63_interventionInSurfaceWaters
    gwdArticle63_measuresDisproportionateCost
    gwdArticle63_measuresIncreaseRisk
    gwdArticle63_smallDischarges
    notApplicable
    }
	
class ExemptionPeriod{
    <<enumeration>>
    upToOneYear
    upToThreeYears
    until2027
    until2033
    until2039
    lessStringentObjective
    indeterminate
    notApplicable
    }

    
classDef default fill:white,stroke:#000;
classDef forFixing fill:white,stroke:#f00;
    

Figure 47 Codelists associated with the Exemption classes - 4th cycle

The following conditions apply:

1. the allowable values for the exemption rationale depend on the exemption type

2. the allowable values for the exemption period depend on the exemption type

Todo

Exemptions - Codelists associated with the Exemption tables

DG ENV to provide table with valid combinations of ExemptionType and ExemptionRationale vs. ExemptionPeriod See EMPTY TEMPLATE EXCEL

Clarifications requested by Member States

Exemptions under Article 4(7a) - short term-impact

Introduced by the Directive (EU) 2026/805 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 March 2026 amending Directive 2000/60/EC establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy, Directive 2006/118/EC on the protection of groundwater against pollution and deterioration and Directive 2008/105/EC on environmental quality standards in the field of water policy.

“7a. Member States will not be in breach of this Directive when any negative short-term impact on one or more quality elements of a body of water caused by a new project or a modification to an existing project in that body of water is no longer detectable after one year or, for biological quality elements, after a maximum of three years beyond initiation of the execution of the project, and all the following conditions are met:

(a) the negative impact is not the result of direct discharges, emissions or losses of a pollutant;

(b) the potential for the negative impact to occur is reliably assessed ex ante by a competent authority, and it is concluded that there would be no negative impact for the body of water concerned or any connected body of water after one year or, for biological quality elements, after a maximum of three years;

(c) an ex post verification is carried out;

(d) all practicable measures are taken to mitigate any negative impacts on the body and any connected bodies of water; and

(e) a summary of the main activities carried out in accordance with this paragraph, the relevant ex post verification results, and the measures taken to mitigate negative impacts, is included in the river basin management plan required under Article 13.

For the purposes of carrying out the ex -post verification under point (c) of the first subparagraph, existing monitoring arrangements set up pursuant to Annex V may be used and, where necessary, they shall be supplemented by additional ad-hoc monitoring.”

—ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2026/805/oj

Actions taken:

• A new value article47a_shortTermImpact was added to the ExemptionType codelist.
  See Figure 47.

• Two new values upToOneYear and upToThreeYears were added to the ExemptionPeriod codelist. See Figure 47.

Quality checks to be implemented:

• For biological quality elements, the maximum exemption period is 3 years.

• For other exemptions, the maximum exemption period is 1 year.

Exemptions under Article 4(7b) - relocation of water or sediment

Introduced by the Directive (EU) 2026/805 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 March 2026 amending Directive 2000/60/EC establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy, Directive 2006/118/EC on the protection of groundwater against pollution and deterioration and Directive 2008/105/EC on environmental quality standards in the field of water policy.

“7b. Member States will not be in breach of this Directive when deterioration occurs in the status of a receiving body of surface water as a result of relocating, by human activity, water or sediment from the same or another body of surface water, or from a body of groundwater to the receiving body of surface water, without causing a net increase in pollutant load, and all the following conditions are met:

(a) all practicable steps, in particular the treatment of the water or sediment, if feasible, to minimise the transfer of pollutant load are taken to mitigate the adverse impact on the status of the bodies of water impacted by the relocation;

(b) the composition of the water or sediments to be relocated is established, and the relocation does not increase the overall risk to human health and the environment compared to the existing risk prior to the relocation;

(c) the receiving body of surface water is confirmed as already not being in good chemical status with respect to most of the pollutants relocated, and in particular with respect to the most persistent and bioaccumulative pollutants relocated, and the ecological status or potential of the receiving body of water is not expected to fall into a lower class as a result of the relocation of those pollutants;

(d) the relocation shall not result in an increase in the purification treatment required for the production of drinking water;

(e) within the receiving body of water, a zone where relocation is prohibited has been established around any abstraction point for water intended for human consumption;

(f) there are no significantly better environmental options for reasons of technical feasibility or disproportionate cost;

(g) the relocation is subject to prior regulation or authorisation; and

(h) a summary, including information related to points (a) to (g) of this paragraph and the reasons for the relocation, is included in the river basin management plan required under Article 13.”

—ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2026/805/oj

Actions taken:

• A new value article47b_relocationOfWaterOrSediment was added to the ExemptionType codelist. See Figure 47.

Quality checks to be implemented:

• Not applicable to biological quality element exemptions.

• Not applicable to quantitative exemptions

• If applied to chemical exemptions, the receiving water body must be confirmed as already not being in good chemical status, in particular with respect to the most persistent and bioaccumulative pollutants relocated.

Todo

Exemptions - Exemptions under Article 4(7b) - relocation of water or sediment

Reporting guidance to be provided by DG ENV.
Quality control specification to be verified by DG ENV.

• ¿Must additional ExemptionRationale values be added?

• ¿Should be linked to the most persistent and bioaccumulative pollutants relocated?

• ¿Pollutant must already be causing failure to achieve good status?

Exemptions under Article 15(4) of the recast Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive

The recast Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive was adopted 27/11/2024 and MS need to transpose the revised provisions by 31 July 2027.

Article 15(4) includes a new exemption from the obligations under the WFD if a water body deteriorates status or does not achieve good status as a result of:

• increased loads of domestic wastewater treated by a new/refurbished urban wastewater treatment plant, otherwise untreated (NOT industrial wastewater).

• The increase is subject to prior authorisation setting out all technically feasible mitigation measures to minimize the negative impact of the UWWTP on water status

• all technically feasible mitigating measures are implemented to minimise the negative impact of other activities causing similar pressures in the same water bodies

• There are no better environmental means that are not disproportionately costly (eg alternative points of discharge)

• The authorisation and its conditions are referred to in the RBMP

—Clarification provided by the Commission in 2026-05-13 in reply to the clarification request during the WG DIS meeting on 2026-04-22

Actions taken:

• A new code uwwtdArticle154_domesticUrbanWasteWater was added to the ExemptionType codelist. See Figure 47.

• The Surface Water Body - Ecological Exemption Decision Tree - 4th cycle was updated.

• The Surface Water Body - Chemical Exemption Decision Tree - 4th cycle was updated.

Quality checks to be implemented:

• Not applicable to quantitative exemptions.

Exemptions related to Protected Areas

• Where objectives are set in terms of WFD quality /quantity status elements (eg stricter quality standards are set for ‘good’ status in view of protecting certain species), exemptions from good status can be applied.

• If no such objectives have been set and protected areas objectives are only set under other legislation, it’s not possible/necessary to exempt from compliance with those objectives: non compliance would imply a breach of those other directives (and of WFD by virtue of Art 4(1)(c ) WFD)

—Clarification provided by the Commission in 2026-05-13 in reply to the clarification request during the WG DIS meeting on 2026-04-22.

Actions taken:

• No action required.

Exemptions related to River Basin Specific Pollutants

• Pending

—Clarification to provided by the Commission reply to the clarification request during the WG DIS meeting on 2026-04-22.

Todo

Exemptions - Exemptions related to River Basin Specific Pollutants

Clarification to provided by the Commission in reply to the Member States’ clarification request during the WG DIS meeting on 2026-04-22.

Annexes - Data analysis - 3rd cycle

This section contains some of the exploratory data analysis that supported the revision of the data model.

It is not relevant for the understanding of the proposed model, but may be informative for data providers involved in the testing phase of the 4th cycle dataflows.

About the EEA discodata service

The example queries can be executed interactively in the EEA discodata service.
Note that some queries may timeout.
If you need to analyse the entire European dataset, download it in CSV format.
For example, the link https://discodata.eea.europa.eu/download/WISE_WFD/v2r1/GWB_GroundWaterBody downloads the data of the [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[GWB_GroundWaterBody] table.

Surface water - ecological exemptions at water body - 3rd cycle

In the 3rd cycle, the reporting of ecological exemptions was requested:

• directly at surface water body level, in the SWEcologicalExemptionType class

• also at quality element level, in the qeEcologicalExemptionType element of the QualityElement class.

In 96.5% of the cases, the data reported is redundant with regard to the reporting at quality element level.

Show code

Example 17 Surface water - duplication between ecological exemptions at water body level vs. at quality element level - 3rd cycle

  /**
    "Duplicate" reporting of ecological exemptions 
    at surface water body level and at quality element level 
    in the 3rd cycle reporting
  **/

  --  https://discodata.eea.europa.eu

  SELECT [exemptionTypeTable],
  COUNT (*) AS [numberOfRecords],
  COUNT  (DISTINCT [euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]) AS [numberOfSurfaceWaterBodies],
  COUNT  (DISTINCT [countryCode]) AS [numberOfCountries]
  FROM
  (
  SELECT COALESCE(qe.[countryCode], swb.[countryCode]) AS [countryCode],
    COALESCE(qe.[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode], swb.[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]) AS [euSurfaceWaterBodyCode],
    COALESCE(qe.[exemptionType_QE], swb.[exemptionType_SWB]) AS [exemptionType],
    IIF(qe.[exemptionType_QE] IS NOT NULL AND swb.[exemptionType_SWB] IS NOT NULL, 'Both', 
      IIF(qe.[exemptionType_QE] IS NOT NULL, 'QE', 
        IIF(swb.[exemptionType_SWB] IS NOT NULL, 'SWB', 'None'))) AS [exemptionTypeTable]
  FROM 
    (SELECT DISTINCT [countryCode]
        ,[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]
        ,[qeEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup] AS [exemptionType_QE]
      FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[SWB_SurfaceWaterBody_QualityElement_qeEcologicalExemptionType]
      WHERE hasDescriptiveData = 1
      and [qeEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup] != 'None'
      and [cYear] = 2022
      ) qe
  FULL OUTER JOIN 
    (SELECT DISTINCT [countryCode]
        ,[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]
        ,[swEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup] AS [exemptionType_SWB]
      FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[SWB_SurfaceWaterBody_SWEcologicalExemptionType]
      WHERE hasDescriptiveData = 1
      and [swEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup] != 'None'
      and [cYear] = 2022
      ) swb
  ON qe.[countryCode] = swb.[countryCode]
  AND qe.[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode] = swb.[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]
  AND qe.[exemptionType_QE] = swb.[exemptionType_SWB] ) t
  GROUP BY [exemptionTypeTable]

Based on the analysis of the remaining 3.5% of cases, it is likely that the missing quality element level exemption is simply a reporting error not detected by the quality control.

Show code

Example 18 Surface water - mismatch between ecological exemptions at water body level vs. at quality element level - 3rd cycle

  /**
    Analysis of the cases where 
    ecological exemptions reported at surface water body level
    do not match an exemption reported at quality element level 
    in the 3rd cycle reporting
  **/

  --  https://discodata.eea.europa.eu

  SELECT COALESCE(qe.[countryCode], swb.[countryCode]) AS [countryCode],
    COALESCE(qe.[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode], swb.[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]) AS [euSurfaceWaterBodyCode],
    COALESCE(qe.[swEcologicalStatusOrPotentialValue], swb.[swEcologicalStatusOrPotentialValue]) 
      AS [swEcologicalStatusOrPotentialValue],
    COALESCE(qe.[exemptionType_QE], swb.[exemptionType_SWB]) AS [exemptionType],
    IIF(qe.[exemptionType_QE] IS NOT NULL AND swb.[exemptionType_SWB] IS NOT NULL, 'Both', 
      IIF(qe.[exemptionType_QE] IS NOT NULL, 'QE', 
        IIF(swb.[exemptionType_SWB] IS NOT NULL, 'SWB', 'None'))) AS [exemptionTypeTable],  
    [numberOfQualityElementWithExemptions],
    [numberOfQualityElementExemptionTypes]
  FROM 
    (SELECT DISTINCT [countryCode]
        ,[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]
        ,[swEcologicalStatusOrPotentialValue]
        ,[qeEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup] AS [exemptionType_QE]
      FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[SWB_SurfaceWaterBody_QualityElement_qeEcologicalExemptionType]
      WHERE hasDescriptiveData = 1
      AND [qeEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup] != 'None'
      AND [cYear] = 2022
      ) qe
  FULL OUTER JOIN 
    (SELECT DISTINCT [countryCode]
        ,[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]
        ,[swEcologicalStatusOrPotentialValue]
        ,[swEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup] AS [exemptionType_SWB]
      FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[SWB_SurfaceWaterBody_SWEcologicalExemptionType]
      WHERE hasDescriptiveData = 1
      AND [swEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup] != 'None'
      AND [cYear] = 2022
      ) swb
  ON qe.[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode] = swb.[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]
  AND qe.[exemptionType_QE] = swb.[exemptionType_SWB] 

  LEFT JOIN 

    (SELECT [euSurfaceWaterBodyCode],
        COUNT (DISTINCT [qeCode]) AS [numberOfQualityElementWithExemptions],
          COUNT (DISTINCT [qeEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup]) AS [numberOfQualityElementExemptionTypes]
      FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[SWB_SurfaceWaterBody_QualityElement_qeEcologicalExemptionType]
      WHERE hasDescriptiveData = 1
      AND [qeEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup] != 'None'
      AND [cYear] = 2022
      GROUP BY [euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]
      ) swb_with_qe_exemption

  ON swb_with_qe_exemption.[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode] = swb.[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode] 

  WHERE qe.[exemptionType_QE] IS NULL 
  AND [numberOfQualityElementExemptionTypes] IS NULL
  -- AND swb.[swEcologicalStatusOrPotentialValue] IN ('1','2')
  ORDER BY [numberOfQualityElementExemptionTypes]

Surface water - ecological exemptions at quality element level - 3rd cycle

In 98.9% of the cases, only one type of exemption was reported per quality element and water body.

Show code

Example 19 Surface water - ecological exemptions at quality element level - 3rd cycle

--  https://discodata.eea.europa.eu

  SELECT [numberOfExemptionTypes],
    COUNT  (*) AS [numberOfRecords],
    COUNT  (DISTINCT [euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]) AS [numberOfWaterBodies],
    COUNT  (DISTINCT [countryCode]) AS [numberOfCountries]
  FROM 
    (SELECT [countryCode]
        ,[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]
        ,[qeCode]
        ,COUNT(DISTINCT [qeEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup]) AS [numberOfExemptionTypes]
      FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[SWB_SurfaceWaterBody_QualityElement_qeEcologicalExemptionType]
      WHERE hasDescriptiveData = 1
      and [qeEcologicalExemptionTypeGroup] != 'None'
      and [cYear] = 2022
      GROUP BY [countryCode],[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode],[qeCode]) t
  GROUP BY [numberOfExemptionTypes]
  ORDER BY [numberOfExemptionTypes] ASC

Surface water - chemical exemptions by pollutant and water body - 3rd cycle

In 99.1% of the cases, only one type of exemption was reported per priority substance and water body.

Show code

Example 20 Surface water - chemical exemptions by pollutant and water body - 3rd cycle

-- https://discodata.eea.europa.eu/

SELECT [numberOfExemptionTypes],
  COUNT  (*) AS [numberOfRecords],
  COUNT  (DISTINCT [euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]) AS [numberOfWaterBodies],
  COUNT  (DISTINCT [countryCode]) AS [numberOfCountries]
FROM 
  (SELECT [countryCode]
      ,[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]
      ,[swPrioritySubstanceCode]
      ,COUNT(DISTINCT [swChemicalExemptionTypeGroup]) AS [numberOfExemptionTypes]
    FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[SWB_SurfaceWaterBody_SWPrioritySubstance_SWChemicalExemptionType]
    WHERE hasDescriptiveData = 1
    and [swChemicalExemptionTypeGroup] != 'None'
    and [cYear] = 2022
    GROUP BY
      [countryCode]
      ,[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]
      ,[swPrioritySubstanceCode]) t
  GROUP BY [numberOfExemptionTypes]
  ORDER BY [numberOfExemptionTypes] ASC

Groundwater - chemical exemptions by pollutant and water body - 3rd cycle

In 99.5% of the cases, only one type of exemption was reported per pollutant and water body.

Show code

Example 21 Groundwater - chemical exemptions by pollutant and water body - 3rd cycle

-- https://discodata.eea.europa.eu/

SELECT [numberOfExemptionTypes],
COUNT  (*) AS [numberOfRecords],
COUNT  (DISTINCT [euGroundWaterBodyCode]) AS [numberOfWaterBodies],
COUNT  (DISTINCT [countryCode]) AS [numberOfCountries]
FROM 
(SELECT [countryCode]
        ,[euGroundWaterBodyCode]
        ,[gwPollutantCode]+isnull([gwPollutantOther],'') AS [pollutantCode]
        ,COUNT(DISTINCT [gwChemicalExemptionTypeGroup]) AS [numberOfExemptionTypes]
    FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[GWB_GroundWaterBody_GWPollutant_GWChemicalExemptionType]
    WHERE hasDescriptiveData = 1
    and [gwChemicalExemptionTypeGroup] != 'None'
    and [cYear] = 2022
    GROUP BY
        [countryCode]
        ,[euGroundWaterBodyCode]
        ,[gwPollutantCode]+isnull([gwPollutantOther],'') ) t
GROUP BY [numberOfExemptionTypes]
ORDER BY [numberOfExemptionTypes] ASC

Groundwater - quantitative exemptions by water body - 3rd cycle

In 93.7% of the cases, only one type of exemption was reported per water body.

Show code

Example 22 Groundwater - quantitative exemptions by water body - 3rd cycle

--   https://discodata.eea.europa.eu/
SELECT [numberOfExemptionTypes],
  COUNT  (*) AS [numberOfRecords],
  COUNT  (DISTINCT [euGroundWaterBodyCode]) AS [numberOfWaterBodies],
  COUNT  (DISTINCT [countryCode]) AS [numberOfCountries]
FROM 
(SELECT [countryCode]
        ,[euGroundWaterBodyCode]
        ,COUNT(DISTINCT [gwQuantitativeExemptionTypeGroup]) AS [numberOfExemptionTypes]
    FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[GWB_GroundWaterBody_gwQuantitativeExemptionType]
    WHERE hasDescriptiveData = 1
    and [gwQuantitativeExemptionTypeGroup] != 'None'
    and [cYear] = 2022
    GROUP BY
        [countryCode]
        ,[euGroundWaterBodyCode] ) t
GROUP BY [numberOfExemptionTypes]
ORDER BY [numberOfExemptionTypes] ASC

Surface water - exemptions by associated protected area and water body - 3rd cycle

This information is only reported for drinking waters, shellfish designated waters, and Natura 2000 protected sites included in the WFD register of protected areas, if specific objectives have been set for the associated surface water body.

Table 42 Surface water - exemptions by associated protected area and water body - 3rd cycle

Exemption	Countries	WaterBodies	ProtectedAreas
Article 4(4) - Disproportionate cost	2	336	87
Article 4(4) - Natural conditions	4	193	190
Article 4(4) - Technical feasibility	4	426	123
Article 4(5) - Disproportionate cost	1	72	12
Article 4(5) - Technical feasibility	2	74	14

Show code

Example 23 Surface water - exemptions by associated protected area and water body - 3rd cycle

--   https://discodata.eea.europa.eu/
SELECT [protectedAreaExemption] 
    ,COUNT(DISTINCT [countryCode]) AS [Countries]
    ,COUNT(DISTINCT[euSurfaceWaterBodyCode]) AS [WaterBodies]
    ,COUNT(DISTINCT[euProtectedAreaCode]) AS [ProtectedAreas]
FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[SWB_SurfaceWaterBody_SWAssociatedProtectedArea_protectedAreaExemption]
WHERE [cYear] = 2022 
AND [hasDescriptiveData] = 1 
AND [protectedAreaType] IN ('Natura 2000 protected site', 'Drinking water protection area','Shellfish designated water')
AND [protectedAreaExemption] != 'None'
AND [protectedAreaObjectivesMet] = 'No'
GROUP BY [protectedAreaExemption],[protectedAreaObjectivesMet]

Groundwater - exemptions by associated protected area and water body - 3rd cycle

This information is only reported for drinking waters and Natura 2000 protected sites included in the WFD register of protected areas, if specific objectives have been set for the associated groundwater body.

Exemptions were reported for a total of 198 water bodies associated with a total of 273 protected areas, in 9 countries.

Table 43 Groundwater - exemptions by associated protected area and water body - 3rd cycle

Exemption	Countries	WaterBodies	ProtectedAreas
Article 4(4) - Disproportionate cost	2	32	50
Article 4(4) - Natural conditions	8	122	182
Article 4(4) - Technical feasibility	5	63	76
Article 4(5) - Disproportionate cost	1	14	14
Article 4(5) - Technical feasibility	2	18	18

Show code

Example 24 Groundwater - exemptions by associated protected area and water body - 3rd cycle

--   https://discodata.eea.europa.eu/

SELECT [protectedAreaExemption] AS [Exemption]
    ,COUNT(DISTINCT [countryCode]) AS [Countries]
    ,COUNT(DISTINCT[euGroundWaterBodyCode]) AS [WaterBodies]
    ,COUNT(DISTINCT[euProtectedAreaCode]) AS [ProtectedAreas]
FROM [WISE_WFD].[v2r1].[GWB_GroundWaterBody_GWAssociatedProtectedArea_protectedAreaExemption]
WHERE [cYear] = 2022 
AND [hasDescriptiveData] = 1 
AND [protectedAreaType] IN ('Natura 2000 protected site', 'Drinking water protection area')
AND [protectedAreaExemption] != 'None'
AND [protectedAreaObjectivesMet] = 'No'
GROUP BY [protectedAreaExemption],[protectedAreaObjectivesMet]

References