In view of the worrying drought in the country, French President Emmanuel Macron wants to save water across the board in the coming years. By 2030, all sectors should use ten percent less water, Macron said on Thursday when presenting a water strategy in Savines-le-Lac in south-eastern France.
“This water plan is first and foremost a plan for austerity and long-term water efficiency.” Saving is necessary because around 30 to 40 percent less water will be available by 2050 due to climate change. Macron also wants to achieve lower consumption through a higher water price from a certain consumption.
It rained very little in France this winter. Since weather records began in 1959, there has never been such a long period without rain in France in winter, according to the weather service Météo France. The soils were remarkably parched for the time of year. The groundwater level is still low in large parts of the country, said Macron.
Last year was already characterized by a lack of rain and severe drought in France. More than 100 communities were temporarily without drinking water. Due to climate change, there are more hot days. According to the weather service, France has been struggling with more and stronger heat waves in recent decades. Drought will also be exacerbated by climate change.
In addition to saving, Macron also wants to recycle used water. Only one percent of the water is currently reused. By 2030 it should be ten percent, i.e. around 300 million cubic meters and thus 3500 water bottles per Frenchman per year, as Macron said. At the same time, the head of state wants to modernize the network and fight leaks. There should be adjustments in agriculture.
