Paving our way towards a Water-Smart society

Recently, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) called on the European Commission to address water as a priority at European scale, emphasizing the need for a common EU approach to water. Water Europe welcomes the EESC's call for an EU Blue Deal and has already published specific recommendations that pave the way towards a Water-Smart Strategy.

'The EU Blue Deal needs to be filled with life by a Water-Smart Society- we will all have to contribute to it' said Paul Rübig, member of the EESC during the conference. With this in mind, it is now more important than ever to ask ourselves: What does the Water-Smart Society mean and what is the way forward to realise it?

What is a Water-Smart Society?
 

✅A society in which the value of water is recognised and realised to ensure water security, sustainability, and resilience
✅all available water sources are managed so that water scarcity and pollution are avoided
✅water and resource loops are largely closed to foster a circular economy and optimal resource efficiency
✅the water system is resilient against the impact of climate and demographic change
✅all relevant stakeholders are engaged in guaranteeing sustainable water governance

What progress are we making?

💧Water Security: Last week, the Council of the European Union approved conclusions that will serve as the EU’s general negotiating position for the 28th United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28). In its conclusions, the Council highlights the importance of a strategic approach to water security. Read the Council's conclusions.

💧Water Sustainability: This September, Members of the European Parliament together with the support of the European Economic and Social Committee signed a letter to ensure water sustainability for our citizens. Read here the letter released.

💧Water Resilience: Last month, the European Commission announced the Water Resilience Initiative among its key priorities for 2024. Read about the EC's Work Programme 2024.