The picturesque Costa del Sol, renowned for its stunning coastline and vibrant lifestyle, faces a pressing issue threatening its sustainability: drought. The scarcity of rainfall in recent years has not only impacted the region’s natural environment but also strained its water supply, prompting authorities to implement measures to mitigate the crisis.
Drought Impact on the Costa del Sol
The drought gripping the Costa del Sol reflects a more significant trend affecting the entire national territory. In the southernmost provinces, including Malaga, rainfall has been insufficient to maintain adequate reservoir levels. However, the situation is not new; it started in the early 21st century. In 2005, Decree No 240 was adopted, which could impose exceptional drought management measures in several municipalities in Malaga.
Under this decree, stringent restrictions could be imposed to conserve water resources, including prohibitions on non-essential water usage such as street washing, filling private swimming pools, watering gardens, and washing cars outside authorized establishments. Public awareness campaigns have also emphasized the importance of water conservation during this critical period.
The Effect of Drought on You and Me
When we often read about climate disasters, global warming, or drought in the morning news, we feel like this is a distant issue, someone else’s problem. Then, we plunge into our garden pool or take a shower, turn on the garden irrigation system, and head out to play golf with friends. But what if, from one day to the next, these things that have been taken for granted until now become unattainable? Read on and find out!
Implementing Solutions Through GIS Techniques
A key initiative to address water supply challenges in the Costa del Sol involves integrating Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques. This project seeks to support water resource management in the Western Costa del Sol (such as Estepona and Marbella) and the metropolitan area of Malaga.
The project’s objectives include conducting comprehensive inventories and monitoring swimming pools and gardens to assess water demand accurately. By harnessing the power of GIS, spatial data analysis can provide valuable insights into water usage patterns, enabling authorities to optimize resource allocation and implement targeted conservation measures.
Andalusia’s Drought and Heatwave Challenges
Last year was one of intense drought and extreme heat for Andalusia, marking the culmination of nearly eight consecutive years of meteorological drought.
With rainfall deficits worsening over the past two years, Andalusia experienced a 45% deficiency compared to normal in 2023, exacerbating the already dire situation. The year ended with precipitation levels well below average across all meteorological observatories, with some areas receiving only a fraction of the expected rainfall. Moreover, extreme heatwaves punctuated the year.
These extreme weather events and prolonged drought conditions underscored the impact of climate change on Andalusia’s environment. They highlighted the urgent need for sustainable water management strategies and adaptation measures to mitigate future risks.
Restrictions Implemented
February 2024 started with strict water restrictions, which remained in place until mid-April on the Costa del Sol, despite a rain boost to the province’s reservoirs. The drought order in Malaga limited inhabitants to 160 liters of water per day. Local water companies, coordinated by Acosol, started lowering water pressure at night to comply with restrictions imposed by the Junta de Andalucía regional government to minimize water usage. Prohibitions were placed on treated drinking water in parks, gardens, golf courses, swimming pools, and car washing.
Back to the Middle Ages?
According to the "Andalusian time zone," which means a late start to the day, the night water restriction can last until 7-8 in the morning. If you are an early riser, you may need to wash in a washbasin instead of taking a shower, then flush the toilet with the bathwater or water the flowers with it. This situation, though romantic in a way, may be troubling. It resembles medieval life when family members shared bathwater, heating it on a stove. While this isn’t ideal, it’s a reminder to conserve water and control consumption responsibly to avoid such drastic measures.
Strict Restrictions Lifted as the 2024 Tourist Season Starts
Recent reports on drought regulations in Andalucía have been positive. Town halls in the region have been granted the authority to lift the ban on filling private swimming pools, imposed due to ongoing drought conditions. As summer approaches, local authorities can assess the water situation and adjust restrictions accordingly. This approach balances water conservation with residents' needs, considering the social and economic implications for the region.
How Do the Most Prominent Tourist and Property Investment Destinations Cope?
Marbella has successfully dealt with the situation by improving its water treatment plant. The treatment capacity will be increased to about 4,300 liters per second, equivalent to serving two million people. Malaga City, by comparison, averages 1,500 liters per second. These upgrades will enable the plant to treat more wastewater, ensuring better environmental protection and water quality for residents and tourists alike. The improvements will allow the plant to recycle more treated water for irrigation, reducing reliance on freshwater sources and promoting sustainable water management practices.
Estepona’s Approach is Promising
Estepona is addressing its drought challenges by planning a fast-build desalination plant. The project could produce 20,000 cubic meters of water per day in just four months. This “express” installation will be containerized and self-sufficient, using solar panels for energy. The mayor, José María García Urbano, believes in Estepona’s potential for water self-sufficiency and emphasizes the environmental benefits of using solar and seawater resources.
Conclusion
The Junta de Andalucía has taken proactive measures to safeguard water resources and ensure sustainable development in response to the drought on the Costa del Sol. Through regulatory measures, technological innovations, and strategic planning, stakeholders can address the challenges posed by water scarcity.
Remote sensing techniques will enhance monitoring capabilities, improve water management practices, and promote responsible water usage among residents and businesses alike. With collective efforts and practical solutions, the Costa del Sol can overcome its water supply challenges and thrive in adversity. Visitors and residents must understand that responsible water use is in everyone’s mutual interest.
