EU Calls for Smarter Water Use Amid Climate Change and Poor Management

The European Commission has unveiled a new strategy to enhance water resilience across the EU, urging member states to improve water efficiency by at least 10% by 2030. The plan includes investments of over €15 billion from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to upgrade infrastructure and combat pollution. However, critics argue the strategy lacks binding commitments and dedicated funding.

Climate change has exacerbated droughts, with 53% of Europe and the Mediterranean basin affected in mid-May 2025. Countries like Spain, Portugal, and Bulgaria face severe water shortages, threatening agriculture and food security. The strategy also addresses water leaks, with 23% of treated water lost during distribution in the EU.