EU Water Cuts: Members Urged to Conserve – FT/RT
The European Union is poised to mandate a 10% reduction in water use by 2030, a decisive move to combat escalating water scarcity. This pivotal EU initiative, the first of its kind, aims to address the mounting threats brought on by increasingly frequent droughts and floods—events that have cost the EU billions. The new water usage reduction directive underscores the urgency of efficient water management,even in everyday activities. Across the bloc, restrictions, such as pool-filling bans, are already in affect, highlighting the severity of the situation. Leaky infrastructure is also a key issue, with meaningful water loss reported in many EU nations.News Directory 3 is tracking the developments. With €23 billion needed annually for infrastructure upgrades, what specific measures will individual member states enact to meet this vital objective? Discover what’s next.
EU Aims for 10% Water Use Cut by 2030 Amid Scarcity Concerns
Updated May 28,2025
The European Commission is drafting a plan to urge EU members to slash water use by at least 10% by 2030. This water usage reduction directive marks the EU’s first such initiative, responding to growing worries about water scarcity due to droughts and depleted groundwater reserves.
Increasingly frequent wildfires and catastrophic floods have cost the EU billions, severely reducing water reserves. EU Surroundings Commissioner Jessika Roswall emphasized the need for efficient water use, even during everyday activities.
Restrictions, such as banning swimming pool refills, are already in place across southern Europe. Haris sachinis, CEO of Greek water company Eydap, cautioned that Athens could face a complete water shortage within two years if dry conditions persist. Maria Panayiotou, Cyprus’ agriculture minister, warned that 2025 could be the island’s third consecutive drought year.
Sweden has also banned garden watering with hoses in some areas. Disputes over water rights have sparked tensions between farmers and environmentalists in France and Spain.
The EC’s plan highlights the need to address the bloc’s leaking infrastructure. The EurEau industry group estimates that about 25% of EU water is lost through pipe leaks; in Bulgaria, the losses reach 60%.
The Commission estimates that €23 billion is needed annually for infrastructure upgrades. The European Investment Bank plans to offer €15 billion in loans and guarantees between 2025 and 2027 to support these efforts. Currently, only 2.4% of water is reused in the EU, a figure Brussels aims to increase.
While the 10% savings target is non-binding, the Commission encourages national targets and improved data collection. A recent climate assessment revealed that only a limited number of countries have implemented water resilience measures.
The European Central Bank has separately cautioned that water scarcity poses a financial threat, potentially affecting nearly 15% of the eurozone GDP.
What’s next
The EU’s proposal will likely face scrutiny and debate as member states consider implementation strategies and address concerns from various sectors, particularly agriculture. Further discussions are expected to refine the plan and ensure effective water scarcity solutions across the bloc.