Water Demand Management in the Island of Crete, Greece

Abstract : The supply and demand management of water resources in Crete is necessary to avoid water shortages in the island predicted in the future due to climate change. Water demand management in Crete should aim not simply to reduce water consumption, but to ensure that available water is used efficiently, economically and sustainably. Several studies related to water resources in Crete have been reviewed and the water consumption in several sectors has been estimated. The island is sufficient in water resources under average meteorological conditions while climate change is foreseen to reduce water precipitation in the coming decades resulting in water shortages. Agriculture is by far the greatest water consumer in the island using around 80% of the total water use. Crete’s tourism industry is growing fast while its share in total water demand is around 3%. Several technical and non-technical measures can be used to reduce the water demand in Crete. The efficient use of water in agriculture and tourism can reduce significantly the total water consumption which was estimated at 610.94 hm3 in 2016. A 10% reduction in water consumption in these two sectors can reduce the total annual water consumption in the island by 8.15 % or by 49.78 hm3/year. Appropriate water pricing, use of financial tools, awareness raising and education of several water-related stakeholders would contribute in the decrease of water demand in Crete. The results of the current study could be used from policy makers, local and regional authorities as well as from water-related organizations in the island.