The European Commission is reportedly set to unveil its first comprehensive plan to combat worsening water scarcity across the EU, calling on member states to cut water consumption by at least 10% by 2030, the Financial Times reports. The move comes amid rising concern about the long-term impact of drought and inefficient water use, particularly in southern Europe.
EU Environment Commissioner Jessica Rosvall stressed the urgency of behavioral change, telling FT, “We need to start thinking seriously about how we use water. Even when we shower, we need to keep this in mind.”
Greece, among the countries most at risk, is already bracing for severe water shortages. Haris Sachinis, CEO of the Athens Water Supply and Sewerage Company (EYDAP), has warned that the capital could face supply issues within two years if current conditions persist.
According to Greece’s General Secretary for Natural Environment and Water, Petros Varelidis, at least €10 billion in water infrastructure investment is needed by 2030.
The government’s broader strategy includes consolidating smaller providers under two major utilities—EYDAP and EYATH—and prioritizing urgent projects, particularly on islands like Corfu, which faced water supply issues last summer despite being Greece’s rainiest region. Chronic mismanagement and delayed maintenance have left much of the infrastructure inadequate.
Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou laid out a three-pillar roadmap during the May 7 launch of the “Water Alliances” initiative: to improve water management efficiency, secure financing for infrastructure upgrades, and promote conservation through public awareness and targeted measures.
Some other countries in Europe have already imposed restrictions on consumption. In southern Europe, many countries have limits on filling private swimming pools, while in parts of Sweden, hosepipe bans have been introduced to conserve water.
To strengthen resilience, the Commission’s forthcoming plan is expected to call for major investments in infrastructure such as pipelines, pumping stations, and wastewater treatment facilities. The Commission estimates that €23 billion annually will be needed to meet infrastructure demands. The European Investment Bank is reportedly preparing a €15 billion loan and guarantee program covering 2025 to 2027.
