According to a WWF study, water scarcity in Europe is largely due to “decades of water mismanagement” – not primarily climate change. Wetlands have been drained, rivers straightened, channeled and dammed, and groundwater recharge areas destroyed almost everywhere on the continent, according to a study by the environmental organization.
“In addition, there is illegal exploitation of water for agriculture and irresponsible practices in the construction of hydroelectric power plants.”
Water reservoirs filled illegally for agriculture
The report shows several examples of water mismanagement and overexploitation in Europe. In Spain and the Netherlands, for example, water is used illegally, excessively and sometimes unchecked for agriculture. According to the information, water reservoirs used for agriculture in France are illegally filled and exploited.
“The EU should promote a sustainable agenda for water and climate adaptation and use existing legal instruments to ensure permanent sustainable management of river basins and water resources in Europe.”
Illegal construction of hydroelectric power plants
In Bulgaria, the illegal construction and irregular operation of hydropower plants, without regard to the water flows necessary for nature and human beings, is an example of water mismanagement. These case studies are just a snapshot of the continent’s deep and widespread management problems.
According to the expert, existing, targeted EU legislation such as the Water Framework Directive is still not sufficiently implemented in the Member States. “The EU should promote a sustainable agenda for water and climate adaptation and use existing legal instruments to ensure permanent sustainable management of river basins and water resources in Europe.”
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
