EYDAP: Why Consumption by Measure is an Essential Parameter
Recent assessments show a significant decline in the drinking water reserves for Attica, plummeting from 1,100 million cubic meters in October 2022 to less than 700 million cubic meters today. This alarming trend, reported by George Stergios, Chairman of the Board of Directors at EYDAP, highlights an urgent issue.
According to Stergios, water demand and consumption have surged, particularly in the first half of 2024, with June alone witnessing a double-digit increase (12%). This spike is primarily driven by the climate crisis, which has caused a substantial decrease in rainfall and snowfall alongside prolonged periods of high temperatures and dust transport. Consequently, these conditions lead to heightened water demand with increasing frequency.
The stark reality is that if current climatic patterns and consumer behaviors persist, Attica’s water reserves could be exhausted in less than five years. While we cannot quickly or drastically change the climate, we can use the limited time available to adapt to these new conditions.
In response, EYDAP has been proactive by developing and implementing a series of measures designed to address water scarcity. This includes the operation of drilling in Mavrosuvala, which is expected to recover about one-third of the annual stock reduction (75 million cubic meters per year). Additionally, the company has initiated a pipeline preventive replacement program to further minimize water losses due to the aging network.
EYDAP has also highlighted several medium and long-term strategies. These measures, in close collaboration with the state, aim to provide a sustainable and uninterrupted supply of high-quality drinking water for approximately five million citizens. Among the key projects is the enhancement of the system connecting Euene and Mornos from rivers that currently only supply the Lake of Kremas. Relevant research and competition phases for this project are anticipated to commence soon.
Moreover, desalination has been identified as a strategic reserve or direct action, while the coming years will see a gradual increase in the use of recovered water for irrigation and industrial purposes, as well as for aquifer enrichment. Globally and domestically, it is evident that adaptation projects require time.
To extend the available time window for readiness, EYDAP emphasizes the crucial role of measured consumption by citizens of the basin. By making small changes in daily habits, individuals can make a significant impact. The few liters of water saved by each person lead to millions of cubic meters saved annually for Attica.
This climate challenge demands a shift in how we approach water consumption. The efforts of the company, state, and citizens collectively hold the key to making a difference. It is a shared responsibility to ensure sustainable water management for the future.
The emphasis on measured consumption by EYDAP underlines the importance of altering our daily water use patterns. Adapting to these new realities through conscious consumption can ensure that we are better prepared for even the most extreme climatic scenarios. The combined efforts of all stakeholders will play a vital role in securing a sustainable water future for Attica.
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