The European water framework directive: A challenge for nearshore, coastal and continental shelf research

摘要: Abstract The European Water Framework Directive (WFD) establishes a framework for the protection of groundwater, inland surface waters, estuarine and coastal waters. WFD constitutes new view water resources management in Europe because, first time, is: (i) based mainly upon biological ecological elements, with ecosystems being at centre decisions; (ii) applied to bodies, as whole; (iii) whole river basin, including also adjacent area. Although marine bodies affected by relate only 19.8% continental shelf, its application challenge an opportunity nearshore, shelf research. This contribution highlights some main tasks research be undertaken coming years, proposing investigations into: typologies; physico-chemical processes; indicator species; reference conditions; integration quality assessment; methodologies determining status, etc.