Implementation of the European Union Floods Directive—Requirements and national transposition and practical application: Lithuanian case-study

Abstract

This work investigates the implementation of the European Union (EU) Floods Directive (FD) in Lithuania. First, it analyzes the requirements set in the EU law for the correct and effective implementation of the directive. Second, it addresses the implementation of the FD in the national law of Lithuania and the practical application of it, particularly in regard to the amendments of the land use regulations. The assessment revealed that Lithuanian authorities comply with the deadlines and requirements set in the FD. However, not all measures are considered to be effective. The distribution of tasks, among particular authorities, especially the potential role of the river basin district council, is not clear, which can lead to an inconsistent decision-making process. The urbanization in the flood hazard territories is still growing, and the usage of hazardous chemicals in agriculture in these areas is allowed. Therefore, the legal limitations of construction and intense agriculture were not sufficiently effective. These drawbacks in the effectiveness of the implementation of the FD can significantly affect the contribution of Lithuania in achieving European and global sustainable development goals.