The European Environment Agency (EEA) has released its latest State of Water Report, revealing critical challenges for Europe’s water resources, with a specific focus on drinking water. The report calls for immediate action as water scarcity and contamination risks increase across the continent, threatening both ecosystems and human health.

Water scarcity now impacts 20% of Europe’s territory and 30% of its population, with concerns growing as regions beyond Southern Europe, such as Belgium, France, Germany, Poland, and Romania, begin to experience significant water shortages. Droughts in Sicily, Barcelona, and Berlin have further highlighted the fragility of Europe’s water systems, underlining the urgent need for sustainable water management practices.

Groundwater: A Vital Resource at Risk

The report stresses that groundwater, which supplies two-thirds of the EU’s drinking water and supports ecosystems such as wetlands and rivers, is under increasing pressure. While 91% of the groundwater area was reported to be in good quantitative status in 2021, the wider issue of water stress is affecting much larger areas.

Groundwater quality is also a concern, with 77% of the groundwater area reported to be in good chemical status. However, nutrients and pesticides pose serious threats, with 14% of groundwater areas failing due to nutrient contamination and 10% failing because of pesticides. These pollutants, largely from agricultural runoff, endanger not only natural ecosystems but also drinking water supplies for millions of Europeans.

Securing Europe’s Drinking Water

The State of Water Report emphasizes the need for more efficient water management, particularly regarding drinking water supplies. Addressing contamination risks and improving water distribution systems are critical to ensure water resilience. The agricultural sector, a major source of both water abstraction and contamination, must adopt sustainable practices to protect these precious resources.

For more information on the findings and recommendations, access the full State of Water Report here.