Discussion on the Future of Water Resources in the EU
- sulevaivelina
- Mar 28
- 3 min read
Water – our precious resource, vital for every living being on the planet.
With the growing challenges of climate change and depleting water sources, the effective management of water resources is becoming increasingly important.
The European Union (EU) has launched consultations on an important initiative that places the principle of "Water Efficiency First" at the forefront. This initiative aims to promote better water management through the application of strategic principles for efficiency and sustainable use of water resources.
What is "Water Efficiency First"?
"Water Efficiency First" is an EU initiative that focuses on the importance of water efficiency in the context of climate change, population growth, and increasing demand for water resources. It proposes treating water as a valuable resource that must be carefully managed, used efficiently, and preserved for future generations.
The principles related to water efficiency include promoting better water use, reducing losses, and increasing opportunities for water reuse and recycling. This policy can have significant implications for citizens, local communities, and businesses across the EU.
The Biodiversity Conservation Foundation in Bulgaria is actively involved in the consultation process regarding the European Water Resilience Strategy, as Bulgaria faces serious challenges in ensuring sustainable water infrastructure and resource management. Issues of water efficiency and sustainable management are critical for our country, impacting not only ecosystem health but also the well-being of citizens and the economy.
Water Scarcity and Inefficient Management
Bulgaria continues to face increasing water scarcity, exacerbated by climate change, improper water use, and the lack of adequate management strategies. Our concern is that without serious efforts to improve national strategies and their effective implementation, our country will face a severe water crisis with devastating effects on the population and the economy.
Pollution of Water Resources and Weak Monitoring
One of the major problems we face is the inadequate monitoring of water pollution and the lack of effective sanctions for polluters. This allows industries and agriculture to continue practices that harm aquatic ecosystems. Bulgaria has failed to meet the "Good Status" objectives under the EU Water Framework Directive in a significant number of water bodies, which is an alarming sign for the sustainability of water resources.
Pollution from Pesticides and Toxic Chemicals
Pesticides and their metabolites continue to contaminate groundwater, having a serious impact on biodiversity. Toxic chemicals like PFAS accumulate in river basins and the waters of the Black Sea, causing significant damage to marine ecosystems, including negative impacts on fish stocks and endangered species such as sturgeons in the Danube River and the Black Sea.
Recommendations for a Stronger Water Resilience Strategy
1. Improve Monitoring and Enforcement:
It is necessary to increase real-time water quality monitoring and impose stricter sanctions on violators. This will encourage better compliance with existing regulations and help reduce pollution.
2. Expand Buffer Zones and Ban Pesticides Near Water Bodies:
We call for the creation of buffer zones of at least 20–50 meters around water sources, where pesticides are not allowed. This will help protect water resources and biodiversity.
3. Promote Sustainable Agriculture:
Agricultural subsidy policies under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) need to shift to support organic farming and non-chemical pest management. This will reduce water pollution and improve soil quality.
4. Ban the Most Toxic Pesticides:
Steps must be taken toward the gradual ban of pesticides that are particularly toxic to aquatic life, and a stricter approval process should be adopted under Regulation 1107/2009.
5. Restore Ecosystems that Naturally Regulate Water:
We call for the restoration of wetlands, catchment areas, and coastal zones that play a vital role in natural water retention and purification. These nature-based solutions will enhance water resilience and reduce flood risks.
6. Combat PFAS Pollution:
A ban on PFAS-based pesticides must be introduced, and investments are needed in technologies to remediate contaminated water sources.
The EU’s Water Resilience Strategy should focus not only on political frameworks but also on effective implementation, monitoring, and enforcement of science-based measures. To ensure a future with clean and sustainable water resources, decisive action is needed, along with investments in new technologies and policies that will preserve water for future generations.
The Biodiversity Conservation Foundation in Bulgaria is ready to collaborate with the EU and national authorities to achieve a cleaner and more sustainably managed water system for Bulgaria and the European Union.
Water efficiency is a key issue for the future of Europe and our planet. As a foundation, together with you, we can be part of this process and advocate for solutions that ensure fair and sustainable access to water resources for all. Your participation in the consultations is an important step toward better water governance and creating a sustainable future for the generations to come.
Comentários