In a joint position paper released on February 27, 2024, the European Construction Industry Federation (FIEC) and the European International Contractors (EIC) have called for urgent action to address water challenges in the European Union. Highlighting the severity of water stress and flooding impacting several EU countries, the FIEC and EIC emphasize the need for a strategic vision for water policies.
The construction sector, represented by FIEC and EIC, plays a crucial role in providing essential services to tackle water challenges. The position paper calls on the next European Commission, EU Member States, and Heads of State and Government to prioritize water alongside industrial competitiveness, defense, and climate change adaptation.
Acknowledging the advanced state of current EU water legislation, the paper highlights vulnerabilities and gaps in addressing climate change and protecting society and the economy from water scarcity and extreme weather events. Several European regions, including Western and Southern Europe, are already facing water shortages and restrictions, while others grapple with water surpluses and flooding.
The FIEC and EIC support the European Economic and Social Committee’s (EESC) plans for an EU Blue Deal and advocate for a holistic approach to water policy. They call for coordinated monitoring, implementation of existing measures, targeted legislative revisions, and a long-term strategy for addressing water challenges.
The paper proposes a cautious approach to new legislation, emphasizing the potential impact on construction permits, costs, administrative burden, and competitiveness. FIEC and EIC call for a strengthened legal status for water in EU law, stressing its essential role in human survival, climate-resilient societies, and functioning economies.
The construction sector sees the EU Blue Deal as a business opportunity and stresses its vital role in building and maintaining water infrastructure. The paper urges a focus on reducing water losses, implementing the Drinking Water Directive, and addressing water stress in vulnerable regions.
To ensure the success of the EU Blue Deal, the paper calls for adequate financial resources, with a mix of public and private investment. FIEC and EIC support the creation of a Blue Deal platform for collaboration among industry representatives, citizens, and decision-makers.
Additionally, the paper proposes the appointment of an Executive Vice President for the European Blue Deal or an EU Special Envoy/High-Level Representative for Water to highlight the strategic importance of a water-resilient Union. Large-scale awareness campaigns on the value of water are also recommended.
In conclusion, FIEC and EIC emphasize the construction sector’s readiness to contribute to Europe’s fight against water challenges, calling for political commitment, financial resources, and collaboration to ensure a water-resilient and sustainable Union.
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