Epsilon Archive for Student Projects

Abstract

This paper examines the nitrogen concentration in groundwater in Slovenia, Slovakia, and Czechia between 2000 and 2019 using panel data. The model consist of the dependent variable WaterQuality, the independent variable Nitrates Directive, five control variables and a Linear Time Trend. The study aims to assess whether or not an international directive from the European Union can help countries achieve lower nitrogen concentration in groundwater than those observed before its implementation. The following question is: Has the nitrogen concentration in groundwater for Slovenia, Slovakia, and Czechia reduced after the countries implemented the Nitrates Directive when they joined the EU? Results shows that the Nitrates Directive did not have the desired outcome and instead the concetrations increased after the implementation of the directive for all three countries. However, the Time Linear Trend in the model indicate that over time a downward trend in nitrogen concentration in groundwater occurs. The paper presents evidence suggesting that both economic- and environmental factors impact nitrogen pollution, along with the use of fertilizer and manure. However, many limitations in the paper exist such as valuable variables missing and to few observations is included in the model. It is clear through evidence that policymakers need to take on the issue regarding nitrogen pollution to improve water quality, and that the Nitrates Directive are important to ensure the safety of future generations.