Water availability in Belgium, a topic of concern?

Abstract

At first sight, European regions appear to have abundant water resources as they are generally characterised by a temperate climate. Sustainable water practices do not necessarily come as a priority topic of interest as water availability is not commonly perceived as an issue. This is especially the case in a country such as Belgium often described as a rainy country. However, over the last few years, some elements such as the creation of a drought unit in Wallonia, the engagement of the Flemish government in a Blue Deal and restrictions on water use during the summer in multiple Belgian municipalities have brought to the public attention the potential risks of a lack of water. So what is the situation of Belgium in terms of water availability? Should it be a topic of concern? This article intends to shed some light on these questions, with the scientific input of Marnik Vanclooster, Professor and researcher at the Earth of Life Institute at UCLouvain in hydrology and water management, for a better understanding of the Belgian water context.