Lake Peipsi is located on the border of the Republic of Estonia and the Russian Federation. Pollution and eutrophication are two of the most critical problems facing the region. The fishing industry, which has been the major economic activity around the lake, has suffered from environmental damages inflicted by pollution and over-fishing.

Over the past few years, both countries have implemented projects, such as the Tartu city wastewater treatment plant in Estonia, intended to improve water quality, reduce pollution and preserve the lake's biodiversity and protected areas. Furthermore, the 'Joint Lake Peipsi Management Programme', an integrated water resource management tool, is being developed by both countries to help coordinate their efforts.