Drivers of water use change: A multiscale integrated analysis for 13 European countries

In this paper, the water metabolism of 13 European countries and the main drivers of water use are analysed for the time period 2010–2020. By combining the MuSIASEM approach and an index decomposition technique, the water changes of countries is investigated through sectoral disaggregation, human time allocation and GDP generation. Compared to existing studies, the proposed methodology allows the integration of information across levels and domains and is suitable to analyse the water use in relation to the socio-economic characteristics of countries. The results of this study, show that the EU integration strategies and the policy initiatives aiming to improve the water management of the Member States have contributed to the water efficiency increase. However, consumer responsibility and demand related strategies are also needed, as GDP change was the main driver of water use. The proposed methodology is suitable to be replicated across different geographical areas, as it compares the water use in relation to the specific characteristics of countries. Given the rising challenges imposed by climatic changes further analyses are needed to investigate how efficiency and demand-related policies can be used to support the transition from a crisis to a risk management strategy. • The MuSIASEM approach is used to investigate the water use changes. • The water use of 13 EU countries is analysed for the time period 2010–2020. • Easter European areas performed some of the largest water efficiency increases. • Most of the countries reduced the quantity of water used per unit of human time. • Per capita GDP increase was the main driver of water use.