Water scarcity and water management have become one of the most pressing policy issues in Greece, in the wake of the intensifying impacts of climate change. The vulnerability of Mediterranean countries is now well established: drought, reduced rainfall and snowfall, and rising temperatures are creating conditions of constant pressure on water resources, with severe consequences for society, the economy, and ecosystems. These developments make the sustainable management of water resources increasingly critical, even in large urban areas such as Attica.
The recent announcement by the Ministry of Environment and Energy regarding measures to ensure the water supply of Attica – particularly the “Eurytos” project presented on 30 October – shows that the State recognises the gravity of the issue and seeks to address a problem that will become even more acute in the coming years. Among other measures, the proposal includes the partial diversion of water from the Krikeliotis and Karpenisiotis rivers toward the Evinos River, the activation of groundwater wells, and the construction of desalination plants.
While technical infrastructures are important and necessary for water management, they can only deliver real value when they form part of an integrated, long-term strategic framework – one that combines prevention, water conservation, ecosystem protection, and participatory water governance. Addressing water scarcity merely as a regional or technical challenge, rather than as a national and cross-sectoral issue, undermines the effectiveness of the response. Water scarcity affects the whole country and is closely linked to agriculture, energy, tourism, and biodiversity. It therefore requires strategic planning and coordination at the national level.
Key points and recommendations for sustainable management:
- The current approach focuses primarily on large-scale technical solutions (partial diversions, groundwater extraction, desalination, etc.), which may offer short-term relief but do not by themselves guarantee long-term resilience. At the same time, there is considerable scope to strengthen nature-based solutions – such as the restoration of natural wetlands, riparian zones, and floodplains; the reconnection of rivers with their natural landscapes; and the removal of barriers to restore natural flow. These measures can complement technical works, providing lower costs and greater environmental benefits.
- Water resource management must become a strategic national priority. A National Water Strategy that integrates prevention, adaptation, and resilience could serve as a roadmap for a sustainable future. Such a strategy should coordinate all related sectors—water supply, irrigation, energy, and ecosystems – and be based on transparency, scientific evidence, and participatory planning.
- The holistic integration of measures for conservation, preventive management, and demand reduction across all sectors can significantly enhance the resilience of the country’s hydrological system.
- Greater reliance on desalination poses challenges for achieving climate neutrality and green transition objectives. Desalination facilities entail high energy consumption, increased greenhouse gas emissions, and potential impacts on marine ecosystems. Their use should therefore be limited to cases where no other viable alternatives exist and should be embedded in an integrated water management framework that prioritises conservation, reuse, and nature-based solutions.
Addressing water scarcity represents a unique opportunity for Greece to shape a coherent and forward-looking water policy. Οne that bridges technical infrastructure with nature-based solutions, enhancing not only water security but also the long-term resilience of ecosystems and communities. Such a policy must be grounded in prevention, adaptation, and sustainable management of demand, ensuring the fair allocation of water as a common good.