Proposal to the EU Taxonomy: Remediation of Eutrophic Water Bodies

This proposal introduces Remediation of Eutrophic Water Bodies as a new EU Taxonomy activity under the climate change mitigation objective. It sets out technical screening criteria for interventions such as phosphorus inactivation, aeration, sediment management, biomass harvesting, and biomanipulation, all aimed at reducing methane (CH₄) emissions and restoring ecosystem functions of oxygen balance and nutrient cycling. The document defines performance pathways, eligible measures, co-metrics, and monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) requirements. It also aligns the activity with Do No Significant Harm (DNSH) safeguards, minimum social standards, and EU environmental legislation. Recognizing eutrophic remediation in the EU Taxonomy would unlock sustainable finance access, strengthen biodiversity and water policy integration, and position the EU as a global leader in addressing methane from inland and coastal waters.