EWA/Xylem Webinar: EU Water Resilience Strategy

“Water is increasingly under pressure, and we cannot take it for granted. We need to strategically think about this resource – just like we have done on energy. We must map this emerging critical risk because this is about our preparedness, resilience, and economic security.”[1] EU Commissioner Jessika Roswall, responsible for Environment, Water Resilience, and a Competitive Circular Economy.

“The Water Resilience Strategy (WRS) is a critical and long-overdue initiative. It should be a key step towards appreciating the intrinsic value of water for our humanity, ecosystems and the EU’s Strategic autonomy” MEP and Rapporteur of the European Parliament Report on the WRS Thomas Bajada. [2]

In 2024, much like the previous year, witnessed numerous flooding and drought events across the continent, underscoring the critical role of water in our society. This significance extends not only to citizens but also to our economy. Significantly, "Water" has been included in an EU Commissioner's portfolio for the first time. Additionally, the Water Resilience Strategy was featured in the European Commission's political guidelines for 2024-2029 under the leadership of Ms. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

Looking ahead to 2025, the EU Commission has launched the Water Resiliency Strategy (WRS). This strategy aims to develop a comprehensive, multi-annual cross-sectoral plan with milestones set for 2030 and 2040. Its objectives include enhancing Europe's water resilience, ensuring sustainable management of water sources, addressing scarcity, and fostering competitiveness and innovation within the water industry through a circular economy approach.

This webinar, sponsored by Xylem, focused on the “EU Water Resilience Strategy” featuring intervention from a European Commission representative who presented the key points of the Water Resilience Strategy. Following this, an Experts Roundtable brought together diverse perspectives from water operators and the industry sector.

The event took place on June 10^th from 11:00 to 12:00 CEST and offered an opportunity to engage with stakeholders and learn more about the WRS.