Europe is currently experiencing drought conditions, exacerbated by rising temperatures linked to fossil fuel consumption. As a result, soils, lakes, and rivers across the continent are struggling to recover, with Southern and Western European countries being particularly affected. Gisela Elsner, Climate and Sustainability Policy Officer at the German Konrad Adenauer Foundation, noted that drought risks have expanded northward over the last decade, impacting Central and Western Europe as well as southeastern countries.
Satellite data for August 2026 indicates that areas as far north as Denmark and Sweden are experiencing dry conditions typically seen in regions like the Sub-Saharan Sahel. Major rivers such as the Rhine and Danube have reached historic low levels, disrupting inland shipping routes. Farmers in Germany and Ukraine report below-average harvests, and several countries, including the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Germany, have implemented restrictions on household water use.
The current El Niño event is projected to be one of the strongest on record, with experts predicting that 2027 will be even hotter and drier. Elsner emphasized the need for Europe to adapt to these conditions, stating, "It is not yet a matter of not having water in our taps anymore. But we need to prioritize and use our water resources efficiently."
An analysis by Deutsche Welle examined water usage across European nations to identify effective measures for water conservation. Private households account for a relatively small share of water usage, consuming between 50 and 300 liters per capita daily, which is less than 20% of total water use. In contrast, agriculture accounts for two-thirds of water withdrawal on the continent, primarily for irrigation and cooling in power plants. In drought-prone countries like Greece, Turkey, and Spain, agriculture accounts for most of the nearly 2000 liters of water withdrawn per person each day.
The report from the European Environmental Agency (EEA) suggests that EU countries could save between 10 and 40% of water annually through targeted strategies. Transitioning to clean energy sources could significantly reduce water consumption, as wind and solar energy do not require the same cooling water as fossil fuels and nuclear power. Over the past two decades, Europe has reduced its water usage by approximately 25%, largely due to more efficient electrical cooling.
The EEA estimates that further savings of between 45 and 95% could be achieved by expanding renewable energy and improving cooling systems. In Southern Europe, the report recommends measures such as replacing open water transport channels with closed pipes to minimize evaporation, switching from surface irrigation to more efficient methods, and selecting less water-intensive crops.
Currently, about one in four liters of drinkable water from public supplies is lost to leaks and evaporation, with some countries like Romania and Italy losing more than 40%. Addressing these losses could lead to significant savings in public water supply.
Individual behavior also plays a role in water conservation, with recommendations for low-flow toilets, efficient appliances, and rainwater harvesting. However, even with widespread adoption of these measures, household water use could only be reduced by 10 to 40%. Citizens can also influence government accountability regarding energy policies and their impact on water resources.
The issue of drought and heatwaves is not limited to Europe; regions in Northern Africa, the Middle East, and Asia have been experiencing higher levels of water stress for some time. Collaboration with these regions could provide valuable insights into adapting to water scarcity. Elsner highlighted that countries with existing expertise, such as Singapore, could offer solutions for reusing wastewater in industrial processes.
Both Elsner and Alexander Psomas, a water resources expert, have observed increased awareness among politicians and the public regarding water scarcity. Psomas noted that a relevant EU working group on water scarcity was established only in 2022, but it has since gained significant participation. He advocates for public discussions about water strategies, particularly during election periods, emphasizing the collective impact of water shortages on society.