Spain increases its water reserves, but structural challenges call for more reuse and desalination

Planning, investment and responsibility: the case of Ibiza

During the most recent prolonged drought, critical moments were experienced across Spain: restrictions were put in place, public awareness campaigns were launched, and many local governments rediscovered the importance of diversifying water supply sources. Now, with water reserves at optimal levels, we cannot wait for the next drought to act: this is the perfect time to implement new infrastructure and modernise existing systems for both urban and industrial water treatment, prioritising savings and energy efficiency.

Moreover, drought does not impact all regions equally. The current situation in Ibiza illustrates the vulnerability of certain territories to water scarcity. Despite ambitions to move towards a more sustainable island, inadequate infrastructure, the lack of effective measures to prevent water waste—especially in large villas with gardens and pools in heavily touristic areas—and urban planning regulations that allow new construction in rural areas, paint a complicated picture.

Even with the contribution of desalinated water infiltrated into the island’s freshwater aquifers, the supply remains insufficient. At Salher, we believe that producing more water through desalination alone is not enough: a broader strategy is essential—one that includes reuse, infrastructure optimisation, and digitalised water management to anticipate crises and ensure long-term water security.