California Expert Assesses Catalonia's Water Reuse Experience. Catalonia has become an example for California in water reuse initiatives. The head of a Californian institute highlighted the region's efforts to combat drought. Authorities are discussing joint projects and new approaches.
Catalonia has attracted the attention of American water resource specialists. Erik Porse, Doctor of Engineering and Head of the Water Resources Institute at the University of California, highlighted the region's experience in water reuse as one of the most notable in Europe. According to him, projects implemented in Barcelona and other cities could serve as a model for California, where the drought problem is just as acute.
During Catalan president Salvador Illa’s visit to the US, joint initiatives with leading California research centers were discussed. For several years, Catalan institutes ICRA and IRTA have collaborated with American counterparts on water and agricultural resource management under Mediterranean climate conditions. This week, a delegation from the University of California arrived in Lleida to exchange expertise and discuss new research on agricultural sustainability.
Response to Drought
According to Erik Porse, Catalonia was able to quickly adapt its water resource management system in response to the recent drought. The region is implementing modern water quality monitoring methods and active water reuse programs, reducing reliance on traditional sources. Special attention is given to monitoring and maintaining safety standards when reusing water for urban and agricultural needs.
Joint Solutions
Experts from both countries note similar challenges: water scarcity, extreme weather events, and the need to find sustainable solutions. In Catalonia, there is discussion about revising the structure of agricultural production to account for new climate conditions. Research is underway on introducing drought-resistant crops, upgrading irrigation systems, and improving nutrient management. According to Porse, such measures could also benefit California.
Policy and infrastructure
In California, following the severe drought of 2011–2016, laws were adopted to limit urban water consumption. Regulations were introduced for utilities, requiring them to comply with limits for both indoor and outdoor water use. However, according to Porse, the shift to new standards is progressing slowly due to high costs and complex approval procedures. Nevertheless, state authorities have already approved regulations for direct potable water reuse, and a number of projects are under review.
Increasing pressure on resources
Another topic of discussion was the impact of new industrial facilities, especially large data centers, on water supply. Although their overall contribution to water consumption in the US is small, these facilities can add significant pressure at the regional level. Experts emphasize the importance of long-term planning and investment in infrastructure to ensure sustainable development and protect the interests of local communities.
