“Europe needs to create a water-efficient economy the same way it has done for energy,” commented Peter Gammeltoft, head of the Water Unit at the Environment Directorate-General, as he presented, on 18 July 2007, a European Commission communication on ways of addressing water scarcity and droughts ⁽¹⁾.

The Commission decries the waste of a resource as precious as water and focuses on prevention, proposing an integrated approach ranging from setting the ‘right price’ for water to rational use, a proper allocation of water use between economic sectors and improved distribution.

Over the past 30 years, episodes of drought have risen considerably in number and intensity in the EU. Losses to the European economy during that period amounted to at least €100 billion. In 2003, drought affected more than 100 million people and nearly one third of EU territory, costing nearly €8.7 billion. Bad luck alone is not the cause. Climate change does come into play but the lack of water also results from a long-term imbalance between water needs and available water resources.

Water management is governed by the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC), which concerns water quality and quantity alike. Peter Gammeltoft recognises, however, that, so far, more attention has been given to the quality aspect. Given the repeated and more intense periods of drought, it is now urgent, he continues, to address the second aspect. The directive establishes a number of instruments that could initially trigger a transition to a new conception of water.

The Commission gives emphasis, for example, to water pricing: it is essential for consumers to pay the ‘right price’ for water. While it is a fact that water is an essential right, it is up to the member states to ensure that social needs are met. That is not a new idea: Article 9 of the directive requires member states to set up a water pricing framework and to submit to the Commission plans for implementing the provision by 2010. If any of the member states should fail to comply by that date, noted Peter Gammeltoft, regulatory (infringement) procedures will be applied.

Protecting water resources also means reducing pollution – the Commission insists on application of the ‘polluter pays’ principle – and promoting rational use. That means setting up compulsory water metering programmes. All sectors and policies are concerned and this element has to be integrated into all of them, notes the Commission. It also calls for a suitable allocation of water between different economic sectors. Water distribution must also be evaluated and reviewed: simple mechanical means, such as the installation of water-saving devices on taps, shower heads and toilets, can be part of the effort. Land use and the construction of infrastructure will also have to form part of the analysis. The Commission notes that the member states may seek EU financing in that connection (Structural Funds, Agriculture Fund).

It is essential for consumers to pay the ‘right price’ for water 
⁽¹⁾ The document is available at ec.europa.eu/environment/water/quantity/scarcity_en.htm