kathimerini.gr
Attica's Water Consumption Rises Amidst Drought
In Attica, Greece, water consumption rose 6.4% in 2024 despite a two-year drought, mainly due to increased irrigation in northern and eastern suburbs, surpassing the effect of 15,000 new connections; long-term solutions remain in early stages.
- What are the primary causes of the 6.4% increase in water consumption in Attica in 2024, and what are the immediate consequences?
- Despite two years of drought, water consumption in Attica, Greece, rose 6.4% in 2024. This increase is primarily attributed to a 20% surge in irrigation needs in northern and eastern Attica during the spring and summer, exceeding the impact of a 30% rise in new water connections due to increased construction.
- How does the 30% increase in new water connections in 2024 compare to the overall increase in water consumption, and what are the implications for future water management?
- The rising water consumption in Attica is not solely due to new connections but also reflects increased garden watering in suburban areas, exacerbated by a hot summer. This highlights a disconnect between infrastructure expansion and responsible water usage, creating challenges for water management in the region.
- What are the long-term strategies being considered to address the persistent water shortage in Attica, and what are the potential challenges in implementing these strategies?
- The ongoing water shortage in Attica necessitates immediate action. While a project to transfer water from two rivers in Evrytania to the Evinos dam is stalled, short-term solutions like increased reliance on wells and potential tanker transfers from Acheloos river are being considered. Long-term solutions like desalination plants are being explored.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing leans towards presenting EYDAP's response to the water crisis as proactive and effective, even highlighting the increased profitability resulting from higher consumption. The headline (not provided, but inferred from the content) would likely emphasize the increase in consumption and EYDAP's efforts. This might overshadow the severity of the water shortage and the long-term challenges.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and informative. However, phrases like "χαλάρωση της συμπεριφοράς των καταναλωτών" (relaxation of consumer behavior) could be interpreted as subtly blaming consumers rather than examining systemic factors. The description of the increased consumption as both positive (due to increased profit) and problematic is also notable. A more neutral phrasing might focus on the factual increase without immediately implying a value judgment.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the increase in water consumption and the efforts of EYDAP to address it. However, it omits discussion of broader societal factors contributing to water scarcity, such as agricultural practices, industrial use, and climate change policies. While the article mentions the prolonged drought, it doesn't delve into its causes or potential long-term consequences. The article also lacks information on water conservation initiatives outside of EYDAP's efforts.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of the situation, focusing mainly on the contrast between increased consumption and EYDAP's efforts to manage it, without thoroughly exploring alternative solutions or the complexities of the water crisis. The implication that increased consumption is solely due to consumer behavior and new connections oversimplifies the broader context.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a concerning increase in water consumption in Attica, Greece, despite a two-year drought. This rise is attributed to increased garden watering in suburban areas, indicating unsustainable water practices. The ongoing delay in water transfer projects further exacerbates the issue, threatening water security. The need for public awareness campaigns underscores the urgency of addressing water conservation and sustainable resource management. The existing water deficit and reliance on emergency measures like wells highlight the vulnerability of the region's water supply system.