WWF report: Water risks impact over half of companies in Central and Eastern Europe

A new report by WWF and EY denkstatt Austria reveals that water scarcity and related issues are becoming significant business risks in Central and Eastern Europe. According to a survey of 115 companies conducted between April and June 2026, 52% of respondents reported being affected by at least one significant negative water-related event in the last five years, such as operational disruptions or rising costs.

Looking ahead, 58% of companies expect water risks to have a moderate or significant impact on their business over the next five years. The primary concerns identified include droughts and water shortages (49%), followed by floods and extreme rainfall (46%), water quality degradation, and regulatory uncertainty.

The study, which included companies from Bulgaria, Czechia, Hungary, Romania, Slovakia, and Ukraine, highlights a gap in corporate preparedness. While 46% of companies assessed water risks within their own operations, only 23% performed such assessments for their supply chains. Furthermore, 53% of participants lack a specialized water management strategy, and only 7% believe they are well-prepared to manage these risks.