WWF and Ecologists at Work criticized the Andalusian Government for proposing what they call the wrong solutions. They fault the plan for new infrastructure and transfers while water demand remains high amid the ongoing drought. Critics argue the real issue is not the lack of rain alone but excessive use of water that pushes the system to its limit and even fuels theft. The statement from WWF emphasizes that the problem is the demand that outpaces available resources, not just the weather.
In WWF’s remarks, the board is accused of following a pattern of overexposure to water as if it were an easy fix. Extraordinary decrees were issued under the claim of scarce rainfall. WWF calls for tackling the structural problems in Andalusia’s river basins first by cutting overconsumption, stopping water theft, and adapting to climate change uncertainties instead of always seeking new water sources for golf courses, industry, or intensive crops, according to Rafael Seiz, WWF Spain’s water program specialist.
The reservoirs in the Andalusian Mediterranean basins Guadalete-Barbate, Guadalquivir, and Guadiana show steep pressure in 2024, with capacities down to 18 percent, 14 percent, 19 percent, and 27 percent respectively.
Iznájar Reservoir in Malaga provides a visual reminder of the challenge, noted by European Press.
Although the water allocated to different users within the Guadalquivir and Guadiana basins has been restricted for at least the last five campaigns, WWF points out that on average more than 85 percent of water use during these campaigns went to irrigation. That level of consumption strains available resources and limits the ability of other users to cope with water scarcity, WWF explains.
Demand growth continues to be encouraged
Public administration is seen as maintaining policies that increase water demand, even as climate change suggests supplies will shrink and become less predictable. This situation, according to WWF, requires sustainable strategies to raise supply while controlling demand.
In light of these conditions, WWF deems it irresponsible to tell the public in the coming months that shortages will be solved by projects that will take two to five years to deliver, such as new dams, desalination plants, or transfers.
Resorts are large consumers of water, according to agencies involved in the discussion.
Water use cannot wait for rain to fix the problem created by overuse and theft. Relying on emergency measures will not resolve a structural issue in water management. The alliance argues that the tools exist to address the problem, but political promises of water that does not exist must stop.
Change production model
Ecologistas en Acción argued that the Andalusian Government began with a wrong diagnosis, blaming rainfall deficits and underinvestment in infrastructure for persistent water shortages. They contend that neither transfers, desalination plants, nor new reservoirs solve overuse of water bodies. A shift in the agricultural, energy, and tourism model toward a fair water economy is needed.
The group views drought as a natural feature of the Mediterranean climate but calls Andalusia’s situation a structural crisis of famine. This crisis grows clearer as rainfall declines and heat waves intensify due to climate change.
The demand for water in Andalusia exceeds what is available, with notable regional variations, highlighting a structural deficit hidden by the overall overuse of surface and groundwater.
Irrigation in Doñana is cited as an illustration of the pressures on water resources.
Forecasting and planning tools exist to address meteorological drought, including drought plans or contingency plans for populations over ten thousand.
Special committee of experts
The need for responsible policies to shift production toward a just water transition is emphasized, taking into account climate change consequences and existing water adaptation strategies.
These measures to manage rising drought risks are presented as a counterpoint to ideas backed by the Andalusian Government and the special committee of experts. The committee is criticized for prioritizing further works despite scientific evidence, cost recovery under the Water Framework Directive, and the boundaries of each hydrographic zone.
Intensive irrigation and tropical crops are on the rise in Andalusia, contributing to environmental impacts through groundwater overuse and pollution. Urban macro complexes are planned, and there is a concern about access to drinking water on the coast.
Ecologistas en Acción stresses that water is not only a resource for production, but also a vital natural heritage essential for quality of life and the survival of valuable ecosystems.
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Contact address for the environmental department has been redacted for privacy.