This one-day conference gathered experts, policymakers and stakeholders to foster collaborative solutions for water sustainability and resilience in the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean region.
During the event, participants discussed the main challenges of the water sector industries, such as scarcity, over-exploitation and climate change impacts. The discussions also covered the latest regulatory developments, and showcased how the European Investment Bank contributes to the sector through its vast experience on project financing, focusing on the nexus between water and climate adaptation.
Regional and international representatives from the public and private sector also had the opportunity to exchange on joint action around innovative solutions to critical water-related issues, in particular desalination, wastewater reuse, water efficiency and infrastructure upgrade. The panels highlighted the importance of integrated water resource management, considering both local needs and climate change impacts to foster preparedness and secure sustainable water supply.
A region vulnerable by climate change
Over 180 million people in the region currently suffer from water shortages, a number projected to rise to over 250 million by 2050. Its water resources are under severe stress due to shifting precipitation patterns, increasing temperatures, and the over-extraction of groundwater.
In focus
Our support for the water sector
The European Investment Bank is one of the largest lenders to the global water sector to date. Through our support we make water security and climate change adaptation a priority.
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