Summary:
'Water that Unites' strategy welcomed by the water sector but criticized for Algarve's lack of attention
Requires an investment of €5 billion by 2030 for 294 nationwide measures
Algarve leaders demand greater focus and funding for their region's specific needs
Environmentalists raise concerns over new dam constructions and their potential impact
Only €350 million allocated for Algarve's water resilience by 2035, prompting calls for urgent actions
Positive Reception for the 'Water that Unites' Strategy
The water sector broadly welcomes the 'Water that Unites' strategy, focusing on water efficiency and reuse. However, the Algarve region claims it is not receiving the necessary attention.
On March 9, the government unveiled the 'Water that Unites' strategy, which encompasses 294 measures to be implemented nationwide, requiring an investment of €5 billion by 2030. Key initiatives include the study and construction of new dams and multi-purpose projects in the Médio Tejo and Mondego regions, alongside efficiency improvements and water reuse initiatives.
Algarve's Call for More Attention
André Gomes, president of Algarve Tourism, acknowledges the strategy's positive elements but stresses the need for greater focus on the Algarve, which faces severe drought conditions. Firmino Cordeiro, director-general of AJAP, supports the initiative but emphasizes the need for swift execution over the next two decades.
Filipe Duarte Santos, president of the National Council for the Environment and Sustainable Development, points out that the strategy addresses essential water resource issues, particularly focusing on reducing losses in the existing network and enhancing water reuse.
Environmental and Agricultural Perspectives
Environmental group Zero commends the strategy's goals of increasing water efficiency and promoting rational water use, while also recognizing the need for improved infrastructure investments. Pedro Perdigão, CEO of Indaqua, believes that private operators' involvement is crucial for successful network rehabilitation, advocating for management models that promote efficiency.
The strategy's emphasis on greater water storage, recovery, and efficiency is particularly important for farmers in the region, who also appreciate the national approach to addressing drought issues.
Dams and Multi-Purpose Projects: A Divided Opinion
The mention of new dams has sparked debate. While some, like António Pina, view it as a step towards overcoming prejudices about water supply, environmentalists express concern over the potential environmental impact and the risk of underutilization.
Algarve's Discontent with Investment Distribution
Despite the overall positive reception of the strategy, Algarve leaders express dissatisfaction with the allocation of funds, noting that only €350 million is earmarked for the region to enhance water supply resilience by 2035. They argue for urgent connections between Algarve dams and Alqueva to ensure water security.
António Pina argues that the strategy essentially extends previous regional initiatives but lacks substantial new contributions for the Algarve, calling it a hastily prepared presentation ahead of potential elections.
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