The Seine River, has confronted persistent environmental challenges over the decades, stemming primarily from pollution and neglect. In 1923, swimming in its waters was prohibited, reflecting early concerns about water quality.

In 1940, the construction of the Seine aval water plant marked the initial response to mitigate pollution levels. Subsequent legislative actions, notably the passage of the first water law in 1964 and the introduction of the European bathing directive in 1976, underscored a growing imperative to address the river’s degradation.

During the late 1970s and throughout the 1980s, concerted efforts led to a tenfold increase in the treatment capacity of the Seine aval plant and the establishment of the Seine amont water treatment facility. These actions were aimed to enhance water purification processes and mitigate the impact of urban pollutants.

The adoption of the first European directive on urban waters treatment in 1991 signified a broader commitment to improving water quality across the continent. Subsequent initiatives, such as the 2016 action plan for Seine river quality improvement, emphasized collaborative strategies to address ongoing environmental concerns.

The implementation of the Olympic Law Stormwater zoning Parispluie in 2018 represented a significant milestone in Paris’ efforts to manage stormwater runoff, a major contributor to river pollution. The opening of the Austerlitz stormwater tank further bolstered the city’s infrastructure for handling environmental challenges.

These cumulative actions reflect a sustained commitment to restoring and preserving the Seine River’s water quality especially for the upcoming Olympic games. As Paris continues its efforts to safeguard this iconic waterway, the Seine serves as a testament to the importance of proactive environmental stewardship in urban settings.