Water has shaped the course of human progress for millennia. Civilizations have always valued this resource for its life-sustaining power and its economic and social significance. The ancient Egyptians organized their year around three seasons tied to the Nile floods, sowing, and harvest. The river’s floodplains anchored an entire society and culture.
Centuries later, water management remains a central public concern. A recent gathering in Madrid, hosted at Espacio Bertelsmann, brought together voices from industry and governance to explore Spain’s water supply and sanitation challenges and the advantages of effective water management.
Spain possesses a highly regarded industrial framework on the international stage. A leading executive from the Spanish Platform for Water Technology highlighted Spain’s position at the forefront of water and circular economy initiatives and its role as an innovator in Europe. A senior water business director emphasized the country’s ability to export technology globally, especially to Latin America, and described Spain as a leading brand in management and infrastructure—a source of national pride.
Experts noted that Spain has become a global leader in water resource management in the past four decades, with engineers and researchers continually sharing knowledge across borders through programs that resemble ongoing collaboration with partner regions.
Despite notable progress, concerns were raised about potential risks. Sustainability was framed as a three-dimensional challenge involving the economy, society, and the environment. The approach currently faces a crossroads where economic pressures could overshadow social and environmental goals, and there is worry about the future for coming generations if the balance is not maintained.
It was pointed out that underinvestment by authorities has weighed on the sector since the last financial downturn, with calls for renewed public-private cooperation. Spain’s experience in such partnerships across North America and Australia was presented as a model that could be expanded domestically to leverage European funds and broaden private participation.
hydric part
The Government’s Recovery and Transformation plan structures its water efforts around PERTE projects. The water-focused PERTE aims to digitize the water cycle, mobilizing billions in euros and creating thousands of jobs. The program stands out for recognizing local ownership of assets and services rather than classifying aid as state support, reinforcing digitization, data sharing, and public-private collaboration while preserving public control of critical assets.
The plan foresees direct investments and additional mobilization, all framed around public-private cooperation to push the sector forward. The emphasis on digitization is seen as a cornerstone for improving information systems, optimizing costs, and ensuring accountability to citizens. The goal is to centralize operation and maintenance while clearly communicating actions to the public.
Experts stress that digitalization should be a core element of future water policy. It adds a capacity to understand climate impact, anticipate extreme events, and guide proactive measures. The transformation of data into actionable insight is viewed as essential for a resilient water system.
Industry figures argue that digital accountability will shape how water resources are valued and managed. Water is often described as a circular resource, yet it possesses many facets that demand clear communication with citizens and authorities alike. The water asset is a vital public good that requires public understanding and sector collaboration.
climate change
The discussion underscored present and future hurdles linked to climate dynamics. Projections warn of increased scarcity, reduced water contributions, and higher flood risk due to more extreme weather events. Policymakers and experts highlighted digitization as a key enabler for safeguarding water security and guiding appropriate responses to evolving conditions.
Innovation emerged as the central driver for current and upcoming plans, with R&D strategies aligned with circular economy goals and ecological transition. Expanded public backing for sustainability is being reported, along with a political commitment to fund innovation. Water is identified as a connector to many Sustainable Development Goals and a catalyst for aligning European policy with the 2030 agenda. It also plays a pivotal role in advancing Green Deal objectives.
Officials and stakeholders emphasized the need to place water on the political and civic agenda as a shared priority. The aim is to ensure water is seen as a life-sustaining asset rather than a political battleground, underscoring the everyday importance of turning on the tap.
circular economy
The strategy for addressing climate change centers on transforming the economy toward ecological balance. In water management, the circular economy and decarbonization are now central goals. Reusing water and optimizing its use are identified as key future targets. When discussing circular economy, the focus centers on three pillars: energy, reuse, and waste reduction.
Water’s role in energy transition is underscored by substantial hydraulic generation capacity. Innovative approaches include micro-turbines in water networks to generate electricity and reduce pressure, demonstrating the interdependence of energy and water. Biogas from treatment plants can contribute to self-sustaining energy, aligning with circular economy ideals.
Experts stress the importance of reusing water cycles. About 15% of water use in the country is recycled, and efficiency improvements in agriculture show notable gains compared with some benchmark regions. Ongoing evaluations of spending and performance help maintain progress.
The Biogas Roadmap connects renewable energy production with the creation of biosolids suitable for agricultural use, with water treatment plants playing a central role. The target is to significantly increase annual biogas output, reflecting the broader push toward sustainable energy and waste valorization.