What really helps Europe deal with drought
Fix leaks or ban pools: As European countries prepare for hotter, drier years to come, here's what the data says about how to really save water
Europe is grappling with drought conditions, driven by rising temperatures due to fossil fuel combustion. Southern and Western European nations are most affected, but the issue is spreading northward, with extreme dryness now observed as far north as Denmark and Sweden. River levels have hit historic lows, shipping routes are disrupted, and countries are implementing water usage restrictions.
European climate change policy officer Gisela Elsner notes that drought is becoming a more pervasive issue, not just a concern for those already experiencing water scarcity. While private households' water usage is relatively modest, agriculture and electricity cooling for power plants account for the majority of water consumption, especially in drought-prone countries like Greece, Turkey, and Spain.
To address this challenge, a multifaceted approach is needed. In Western and Eastern Europe, transitioning to renewable energy sources can significantly reduce water usage, as renewables require little to no water for cooling, unlike nuclear and fossil fuel power plants. The European Environmental Agency estimates that implementing targeted strategies could save EU countries between 10 and 40% of water annually.
Agriculture is a significant water consumer, particularly in Southern Europe. Strategies like replacing open water transport channels with closed pipes, shifting from surface irrigation to sprinklers or drip irrigation, and opting for water-efficient crops can help. Public water supply losses to leaky pipes and evaporation account for a significant portion of water waste, and reducing these losses can yield substantial savings.
Individual actions, such as using water-efficient appliances and adopting water-conscious consumer habits, can contribute to the overall effort. However, the impact of individual efforts is limited, and Europe can learn from and collaborate with countries facing more severe water stress worldwide.
Written by urgent.news from DW English (Top Stories)'s reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
