EurEau annual report: water should remain EU priority

EurEau, the European federation of national associations of water services has issued its annual report covering the year 2023 and set out its priorities for a future where securing water sources is vital.

Some progress, some setbacks

Introducing the report, Pär Dalhielm, EurEau president, stated that the year had been began with a feeling of positivity for the European water sector 'buoyed by the expectation that our water resources would be recognised and valued as they deserve, with significant legislative efforts being made to improve water quality and quantity'.

While Industrial Emissions Directive, Environmental Quality Standards and the Groundwater Directives and the Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive, the president expressed disappointment that water resilience initiatives had been delayed (although this has since been given priority by the European Commission).

He also noted significant opposition to certain regulations, leading to the Sustainable Use of Plant Protection Products being shelved.

The report notes: "Yet, amidst these challenges, we persevered, adapting our strategies and advocating tirelessly for the crucial role of water in our agricultural, economic, and societal future."

Working for a more positive water future

EurEau represents national drinking and wastewater service providers from 33 countries, from both the private and the public sectors, providing for 500 million people.

The president outlined that the water sector stands as 'a vital partner in advancing a greener, more resilient future for Europe and beyond. It is incumbent upon us to seize this moment, leveraging our collective expertise and advocacy to protect our environment and ensure access to clean water for all'.

This belief stands at the core if the organisations manifesto for the upcoming European Parliament elections, with Dalhielm committing to work closely with EU institutions on 'underpinning the importance of water for our future. Without adequate supplies of clean water and sanitation services, these goals are not achievable'.

Clear priorities built on key strengths

EurEau sets out clear objectives for the future. EurEau spokeperson, Caroline Green, told Aquatech Online: "In the face of global challenges like pandemics and geopolitical tensions, the protection and sustainable management of water resources is critical for agricultural, economic, and societal stability."

She added: "We must focus on enhancing pollution control at the source, bolstering the resilience of water services, promoting resource efficiency, and securing sustainable financing."

To achieve these, the report states that EurEau must build on its key strengths:

• Advocating for consumers and water services
• Harnessing the experience of our experts and secretariat
• Building consensus around strong positions
• Working together.

However, Greene cautions that these goals may face tension from other competing national and international goals: "For the future, while there may be an EU shift away from sustainability and climate protection toward strengthening economies and addressing geopolitical tensions, water resources should remain a priority, as access to safe and affordable water is essential for society and the economy."

You can read the full report, here.