Revised european legislation proposed will improve the quality of drinking water and access to it as well as provide better information to citizens.
The right to access essential services of good quality, including water, is one of the principles of the european pillar of social rights unanimously endorsed by heads of State or Government at the Gothenburg summit. Proposed legislation aims to guarantee this right and thereby responds to the first-ever successful Eruopean citizens’ initiative, “right2water”, that gathered 1.6 million signatures in support of improving access to safe drinking water for all Europeans. In addition this proposal seeks to empower consumers ensuring that water suppliers provide consumers with clearer information on water consumption, on the cost structure as well as on the price per litre allowing a comparison with the price of bottled water. This will be contributing to the environmental goals of reducing unnecessary plastic use and limiting the European’s carbon footprint, as well as to the achievement of the sustainable development goals.
The first Vice-President said:
Citizens have made their voice loud and clear through the european citizens’ initiative, calling for action to have a guaranteed access to safe drinking water. We have heard and heeded their call and carried out a thorough analysis of our existing legislation. We are therefore proposing to modernise our european law, improving the quality of drinking water and increasing the access of citizens where it matters most. Together we can and must protect the health and safety of our citizens”
The responsible for growth, jobs, investment and competitiveness said:
With this proposal we facilitate the transition to a circular economy, helping member States manage drinking water in a resource-efficient manner. It implies reduction of energy use and unnecessary water loss. Thanks to increased transparency it will also empower consumers and push them towards more sustainable choice, for example using tap water”