This year, as we celebrate World Water Week, the message is clear: “Bridging borders: water for a peaceful and sustainable future.” What needs to be done today will significantly impact the future of this vital resource. Water knows no borders; as it connects people, ecosystems, and economies in a complex web of interdependence. However, climate change, rapid urbanisation,and increasing demand pose significant threats to this fundamental resource.
Who is under water stress?
Before discussing solutions, let’s start by defining a key term: water stress. Water stress occurs when there isn’t enough clean water to meet the needs of people and nature. This is not just a potential future issue, but a current reality that affects millions of people around the world, including many parts of Europe. According to the European Environment Agency (EEA), about 20% of Europe and 30% of Europeans experience water stress each year, with droughts and water scarcity becoming more common1.
Southern Europe, a region known for its unique beauty and rich culture, is especially susceptible to water scarcity, particularly during the summer months. High demand from agriculture, public water supply, and tourism puts significant pressure on the available water resources. Climate change exacerbates this challenge, leading to more frequent and severe droughts. Water stress is a constant concern in regions such as Italy’s Po Basin, Spain’s Guadiana and Segura, and Mediterranean islands like the Balearics, Crete, and Sicily2. With a 3°C temperature increase, river discharge could decrease by up to 40% in the summer, emphasizing the urgent need for action1.
Addressing water stress through water-sensitive urban design
In response to these challenges, the UN’s Agenda 2030 emphasizes the importance of sustainable water management through Goals 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and Goal 14 (Life Below Water). However, as water stress continues to rise, immediate solutions are essential.
Water-sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) integrates water management into urban planning, offering a proactive approach that encourages efficient water use, protects natural water cycles, and improves urban waterways. Techniques like green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavements help cities reduce pollution, combat climate impacts, and foster more resilient, livable environments.
By advancing green technologies and sustainable practices, IMPRESS supports the EU’s goals of enhancing water security and protecting aquatic ecosystems. This collaborative effort is crucial for achieving the objectives of Agenda 2030 and fortifying the resilience of European cities.
[1]: European Environment Agency (2021) ‘Water stress is a major and growing concern in Europe’, Available at: https://www.eea.europa.eu/highlights/water-stress-is-a-major (Published 21 Oct 2021)
[2] : WISE-Freshwater (2024) ‘Water resources of Europe’, Available at: https://water.europa.eu/freshwater/europe-freshwater/freshwater-themes/water-resources-europe?activeAccordion=c448aa13-edfb-4c1b-a888-3337895607c0 (Published 28 Feb 2024).
