286 Socioeconomic impacts derived from the effects of climate change on water quality in Catalonia (Spain) with a special emphasis on vulnerable groups

Abstract OP 20: Challenges and Opportunities for Health 1, B308 (FCSH), September 4, 2025, 13:30 - 14:30 Water quality is a fundamental aspect for public health, food security and environmental sustainability, requiring resilient and adaptive strategies to address pollution, scarcity and climate change challenges. Climate change is a growing threat to water resources, with profound socioeconomic consequences, particularly for vulnerable groups experiencing water poverty and hydrovulnerability. This study aims at exploring how climate-induced changes in water availability and quality may generate social and economic impacts in Catalonia, Spain. Within the research project QUEEN, this study employs a qualitative methodology, conducting eight semi-structured interviews with quadruple helix stakeholders (government, industry, academia, and civil society). Results highlight that climate change exacerbates irregular water supply, increases treatment costs and disproportionately affects low-income households and single-parent families. Policy gaps and weak institutional coordination further limit equitable water management, worsening disparities in access to safe and affordable water. These challenges pose an urgency for policy interventions to prevent the deepening of socioeconomic inequalities. To mitigate these impacts, results emphasize the need for investment in sustainable water technologies, including digitalized management systems and water reuse initiatives. Moreover, strengthening participatory governance involving civil society and implementing integrated policies tailored to vulnerable communities are also critical to ensuring equitable water access. Addressing climate-related risks to water security requires cross-sector collaboration and inclusive decision-making processes prioritizing affected populations. In conclusion, this research contributes to the global dialogue on the unequal effects to the climate change, considering social vulnerability. It offers key insights for policymakers, practitioners and researchers working to ensure that nobody is left behind.