Alpine water management and climate risks

Environmental and political actors in the Alpine region are addressing water management challenges driven by climate change. In Austria, the WWF has requested an independent climate risk analysis for the Gepatsch-Speicher reservoir, warning that melting permafrost could cause landslides and dangerous flood waves. The organization has also called for a suspension of the environmental impact assessment regarding the Kaunertal power plant expansion.

In Switzerland, the Green Liberal Party has proposed constructing new reservoirs in areas vacated by retreating glaciers to mitigate both droughts and heavy rainfall. The country has faced severe drought, with river levels reaching record lows that forced numerous hydropower plants and turbines to shut down. To combat flood risks from surface runoff, Swiss authorities plan to release an updated Surface Runoff Hazard Map in early 2027.

Recent developments in Switzerland highlight ongoing water scarcity and pollution concerns. In the Canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden, water suppliers have temporarily shut off public drinking water fountains as a precautionary measure due to low groundwater levels and insufficient rainfall. While the drinking water supply remains secure, authorities are urging the population to use water sparingly.

Additionally, the Swiss Association of Fishery Inspectors (SVFA) is expanding its ‘Obacht am Schacht…’ campaign into Valais. The initiative aims to prevent environmental pollution by educating the public that rainwater from drainage shafts often flows directly into natural water bodies without treatment. The campaign encourages citizens to avoid disposing of chemicals, oils, or cigarette butts near these shafts to protect aquatic ecosystems.