Groundwater Pollution and Quality Monitoring Approaches at the European Level

Abstract

The paper investigates about the sources and the processes of groundwater contamination and their assessment within the DPSIR framework. Naturally occurring substances, trace elements, radionuclides, nutrients and salt are reviewed with emphasis on the assessment of the natural background load. And among synthetic substances, petroleum hydrocarbons, pesticides and organic-waste contaminants of water are considered. Emerging contaminants cannot described within the DPSIR therefore monitoring approaches and indicators of contamination are discussed for proposing improved monitoring plan that combines physical, chemical and biological indicators and science with policy.