Nitrate in groundwater
Data are taken from well samples and aggregated to annual average concentrations for groundwater bodies in Europe. Nitrate can persist in groundwater for a long time and accumulate at a high level through inputs from anthropogenic sources (mainly agriculture). The EU drinking water standard is limited to 50 mg NO3/L to avoid threats to human health. The distribution of measured groundwater bodies might mask exceedance of nitrate levels in certain polluted areas.
Definition:
Not available
Food system outcome type: environmental impacts
Category: WaterQuality
Unit(s) of measurement description:
mg NO3/L
Unit of measurement:
- Not specified
Supply chain components: