The 'Water Conservation Culture' of Catalunya

If you are based in Catalunya, as we are, you have probably heard that Catalonia has declared a drought emergency, and will enter the emergency phase in January. An emergency directly linked to the climate crisis.

Already, Catalunya is one of the regions in Europe with the lowest water consumption (averaging between 108 and 113 liters per inhabitant per day). This has two main reasons. Firstly, the majority of inhabitants live in blocks of flats typical for Barcelona housing, and secondly, the great drought of 2008 has resulted in a profound awareness of its citizens. It is said that Catalunya has a Water Conservation Culture.

Considering the current crisis, it is clear that even more needs to happen to keep Catalaunyas, and by extension the world's, water levels healthy. Forest management needs to be improved and urban growth projects need to include the protection of natural water dynamics.

As such, The European Union’s Water Framework Directive (2000) the Strategic Plan for Barcelona Metropolitan Area’s Integral Water Cycle (2023), and Catalan Water Management Plan (2009) are being implemented and are steering the region in the right direction.

Now is the time for everyone, including those new to the region, to incorporate the water conservation culture into their daily lives. During the 2008 Catalunya water crisis, individual actions within the home led to 20% savings! It is time for everyone to think about their water consumption, fix leaks in their homes, and conserve in any way feasible.

This is a call to action for those living in Catalunya, and everywhere else. The water crisis is global, and we must work together to minimize its impact on our communities. It is up to us!