The government of Catalonia has declared a state of emergency due to water shortages. The measure comes into force in the capital Barcelona and 201 other municipalities in the region in northeastern Spain on Friday.
Catalonia is a naturally dry region, and climate change and human activities have contributed to water shortages and droughts.
There will be new strict restrictions on consumption that will affect around six million people (out of a total of around eight million residents of Catalonia) in the provinces of Barcelona and Girona.
Greentech LIVE Water shortages and severe drought are affecting the federal state of Catalonia in Spain. Photo Salah Ait Mokhtar via Unsplash
Water shortage in Spain: worst drought since records began
Catalonia is suffering from the worst drought since records began a century ago, said regional president Pere Aragonès.
In the holiday region, which is also very popular with Germans, water consumption is now limited to a maximum of 200 liters per person per day. If the situation worsens, the limit can be reduced to 180 liters in a second phase and to 160 liters in a third phase.
TrendingGreentech.LIVE Conference 25.-27.04.2024 (Spring Edition)
For comparison: In the regional capital Barcelona, consumption is currently on average 173 liters, but in other larger communities it is sometimes well over 200 liters.
Possible approaches to combat water scarcity in Catalonia
A possible approach to combating water scarcity in Catalonia and other regions involves sustainable water management. These include measures such as:
Improve water efficiency: Promoting water efficiency in agriculture, industry and households can help optimize water use.
Water recovery and recycling: Developing water recovery and reuse systems in various sectors can increase water availability.
Natural water retention areas: Creating natural water retention areas, such as reforestation projects, can help support the water cycle and reduce soil erosion.
Awareness raising and education: Educating the population about the economical use of water as well as training on the efficient use of water in agriculture and other sectors are crucial.
Investments in infrastructure: Investments in modern water supply and wastewater systems can improve water infrastructure and minimize the loss of water through leaks.