MEP Nikolaos Anadiotis (NI) has asked the European Commission whether it has data on the possible transfer of industrial pollution from Turkey's River Ergene to the River Evros and its delta, and whether it will support a permanent water quality monitoring system for the transboundary basin. The written question, dated 3 June 2026, highlights that the Ergene passes through heavily industrialised areas and that scientific publications record serious pollution by heavy metals and other chemicals, with potential impacts on public health and ecosystems. The Evros Delta is part of the Natura 2000 network, and the EU's Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) requires good water status and cooperation in transboundary basins.
first, whether the Commission has data or an assessment of possible pollution transfer from the Ergene to the Evros; second, how it monitors implementation of the Water Framework Directive in transboundary basins involving a non-EU country like Turkey; and third, whether it intends to support a permanent, transparent and publicly accessible water quality monitoring system in the Evros, in cooperation with Greece, Bulgaria and Turkey.
The question signals a push for stronger EU engagement on environmental protection at its external borders, particularly where industrial pollution from a non-EU country may affect EU Natura 2000 sites. It also raises the issue of enforcement of EU water law in cross-border contexts where one party is not bound by EU rules.
The Commission is expected to reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will indicate whether it has existing data on the issue, how it cooperates with Turkey on water management, and whether it is willing to fund or facilitate a joint monitoring system. The response will also signal the Commission's stance on extending EU environmental oversight to transboundary pollution originating outside the Union.