Bathing water quality in mainland Portugal worsens in 2026, says ZERO

An analysis by environmental group ZERO found bathing water quality worsened this year, comparing APA and DGS monthly reports for May-July 2025 and 2026. Restrictions rose 65%, from 51 to 84, while outright closures more than doubled, from 17 to 39, mainly due to microbiological contamination. ZERO identified 68 bathing waters nationwide unfit for bathing at least once, with inland waters disproportionately affected. It blamed sewage network deficiencies, agricultural and industrial discharges, and diffuse pollution, calling for stronger inspection and clear accountability. Two beaches awarded 'Zero Pollution' status in May will lose it in 2027.