EU Lawmakers Agree Rules to Help Prevent Floods
Date: 26-Apr-07
Country: FRANCE
Floods in Europe have caused about 700 deaths and at least 25 billion euros (US$34.10 billion) in "insured economic losses" since 1998, according to the European Commission, which authored the draft legislation.
European Union governments had previously endorsed the proposal, requiring them to assess flood risks in their river basins and coastal areas, develop hazard maps for high-risk areas, and set out flood-management plans.
Environment Commissioner Stavros Dimas welcomed the vote in parliament, which shares decision-making authority over EU environmental law with EU governments.
"Flood risk and the associated economic damage are likely to increase in Europe in the coming decades," he said in a statement. "The best way to reduce the costs of adapting to climate change is to take early action."