Vast areas of Europe are facing shrinking water reserves, according to new research from University College London (UCL). Using satellite data from the past two decades, scientists found that regions from Spain to Poland are losing freshwater.
These satellites measure changes in the Earth’s gravitational field, which helps track shifts in groundwater, lakes, and rivers. The results show a troubling trend. While northern Europe is getting wetter, southern regions—including parts of the UK, Spain, and Italy—are drying out.
This shift is a red flag, especially as climate change intensifies. Mohammad Shamsudduha, a professor at UCL, emphasized the need for urgent action on emissions. He noted, “We’re likely heading toward a 2°C increase in temperatures, and the effects are becoming evident.”
Groundwater, traditionally seen as a more resilient water source, is also being affected. Researcher Arifin found that even underground water reserves are declining. In the UK, while the west is becoming wetter, the east is drying significantly. This changing pattern, with heavier rains followed by longer dry spells, poses challenges for water supply, especially in regions relying heavily on groundwater.
The European Environment Agency reported a 6% increase in groundwater use from 2000 to 2022, largely driven by public demand and agriculture. Groundwater made up 62% of public water supply across the EU, highlighting its importance as a resource.
To address the growing crisis, the European Commission is pushing a water resilience strategy. This includes enhancing water efficiency by at least 10% by 2030 and modernizing infrastructure to reduce leaks, which can vary widely from 8% to 57% across member states.
Experts like Hannah Cloke from the University of Reading warn of dire consequences if current trends continue. “We face possible severe water restrictions here in England next spring and summer if conditions don’t improve,” she said.
The situation isn’t just a local concern; it’s interconnected. Spain, for instance, is a major supplier of fruits and vegetables to the UK. As water supplies dwindle, food security may be at risk.
On a global scale, drying trends are emerging in many regions, from the Middle East to parts of South America and the US. In Iran, for instance, the capital faces a potential “day zero,” a time when tap water may no longer be available.
As the climate crisis unfolds, the impacts once felt mainly in the Global South are now very much apparent in Europe. Shamsudduha calls for innovative ideas, like rainwater harvesting, to tackle these pressing water issues.
It’s clear that action is needed now to safeguard Europe’s water future and ensure that communities have access to this vital resource.
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