Impact of Agriculture on Water Pollution in OECD Countries: Recent Trends and Future Prospects

Abstract

Agricultural pollution of surface water, groundwater and marine waters relates to the contamination of drinking water, and harmful effects on ecosystems and costs for recreational activities, cultural values and commercial fisheries. After the introductory section, this paper examines the recent trends and economic costs of agricultural water pollution. Subsequent sections discuss recent Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) policy experiences in addressing water pollution in agriculture, and the medium outlook for pollution across OECD countries. The final section explores ways forward toward sustainable management of water quality in agriculture.