National Technical Regulation on Surface Water Quality (QCVN 08:2023/BTNMT).

This National Technical Regulation on Surface Water Quality (QCVN 08:2023/BTNMT) supports environmental management, pollution control, and public information transparency, aiming to improve water quality and ensure sustainable use of surface water resources across Vietnam. It sets maximum allowable limits for pollutants in surface water to protect human health and aquatic ecosystems. The regulation categorizes water quality into four levels (A to D) based on parameters like pH, dissolved oxygen, BOD, COD, nutrients, heavy metals, and microbial indicators. It applies to rivers, lakes, canals, and other inland water bodies and guides water use for drinking, recreation, agriculture, and industry.
The regulation also outlines monitoring methods, referencing Vietnamese and international standards (e.g., ISO, US EPA). It mandates regular or automated monitoring by certified organizations and provides criteria for classifying water quality and determining treatment needs.