EU proposes legislation to improve drinking water quality

BRUSSELS, Feb. 1 (Xinhua) -- The European Commission on Thursday proposed revised legislation to improve the quality of drinking water and access to it.

This proposal was a response to European Citizens' Initiative "Right2Water" with a goal of improving access to safe drinking water for all Europeans, according to a statement of the Commission.

The new legislation will require member states to improve access for all people, especially for vulnerable and marginalized groups who have difficulties accessing drinking water.

Plastic bottles are one of the most common single use plastic items found on European beaches, according to official data.

The proposal also requires water suppliers provide consumers with clearer information on water consumption, the cost structure and the price per liter, which will reduce plastic waste from bottled water.

These efforts will ultimately contribute to fulfilling the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement objectives on climate change by helping lower the carbon dioxide footprint. Enditem