The European Investment Bank (EIB) will invest €15 billion between 2025 and 2027 to combat the growing water crisis in Europe. The EIB water crisis investment initiative targets key issues like water pollution, drought, waste, and the urgent need for innovation in water management.
According to EIB water division head Edouard Perard, the funding will primarily be issued as loans and is expected to attract an additional €25 billion in private investment. Projects will include major infrastructure developments, ecosystem restoration, and the adoption of cutting-edge water technologies. “This is where water meets business,” Perard said, underlining the focus on sustainable innovation.
The announcement aligns with a wider EU strategy to increase resilience to water stress, which is worsening due to climate change and increased demand from agriculture and urban development. Recent data shows nearly 40% of Europe is under drought warning, with critical areas in Greece, Italy, and Poland.
The European Commission is also preparing new proposals, including minimum water efficiency standards for high-use sectors such as data centers. However, the EU estimates it needs an additional €23 billion annually to meet current water regulation targets fully.