Freshwater ecosystems face critical decline amid global water scarcity

Global freshwater resources are facing significant depletion and ecosystem loss. Data from the World Meteorological Organization indicates a persistent reduction in stored continental water, with seven consecutive years of abnormally low river basin levels. Furthermore, a study by the World Resources Institute (WRI) reveals that nearly one-third of freshwater ecosystems have disappeared since 1970, including over 988 million acres of wetlands.

This loss of freshwater ecosystems, such as mangroves, threatens biodiversity and reduces the planet's ability to mitigate global warming. Freshwater species are currently declining more rapidly than those in marine or terrestrial habitats, with one-fifth of evaluated species facing extinction.

In response to management challenges, the Consorci d’Aigües de Tarragona has completed a 23.2 million euro digital transformation to improve water control and transparency. Meanwhile, the European Biogas Association is calling for reduced administrative hurdles and common regulations to accelerate the development of biomethane as a strategic energy source for decarbonization in Europe.