Water resilience in the Algarve – our shared purpose

The hydrological drought in the Algarve region has now a structural character with a tendency to worsen due to the expected effect of climate change. A paradigm shift in the use of water resources is needed, given the evidence of the insufficient effectiveness of the measures adopted so far, and it is therefore necessary to rethink and find new paths in close coordination between the administration, users and the scientific community.

The response to the structural problem of drought must necessarily incorporate, first and foremost, society's recognition of the scarcity of water and the consequent change in behaviour towards a more sparing use. It also requires a growing commitment to water efficiency from the various economic sectors and urban use.

It is important, within this framework, to promote the Algarve Regional Water Efficiency Plan, whose 1st phase began with the involvement of the main stakeholders, through the identification of critical factors and solutions, in a geographic analysis matrix, observant of the difference in issues affecting the western and eastern Algarve.

“Water resilience in the Algarve – our shared purpose” aims to promote a reflection and to share best practices for water resilience, in a touristic and agricultural region. The event will also include sharing of similar experiences by other regions.