The disparity between regulatory measurements of E. coli in public bathing waters and the public expectation of bathing water quality.

摘要: The main objectives of the European Union (EU) Bathing Water Directive (BWD) 2006/7/EC are to safeguard public health and protect designated aquatic environments from microbial pollution. BWD is implemented through legislation by individual EU Member States uses faecal indicator organisms (FIOs) as pollution compliance parameters determine season-end bathing water classifications (either 'Excellent', 'Good', 'Sufficient' or 'Poor'). These based on epidemiological studies that have linked human exposure FIOs with risk contracting a gastrointestinal illness (GI). However, understanding attitudes towards quality, together perceptions relative risks, often overlooked yet critically important for informing environmental management decisions at beach ensuring effective communication. Therefore, this study aimed effectiveness current regulatory strategies users about assess in terms health. Two UK waters were selected case studies, questionnaires deployed beach-users. had different classification histories both electronic signage operation communicating daily quality predictions. majority respondents did not recognise standardised signs, unaware information boards signs predicting particular day. In general, perceived their respective be either 'good' 'sufficient', which also lowest they would willing accept bathing. level suggested significant misunderstanding system, (91%) finding only <1% acceptable. 'Good' much less stringent likelihood GI. This has shown limited, an investment methods disseminating needed order allow beach-users make more informed using waters.