Spain’s northeastern Catalonia is facing a severe drought crisis, prompting the regional government to consider imposing water restrictions on tourists in the driest areas. The proposed restriction of 100 liters per tourist per day for hotels would come into effect if municipalities fail to keep domestic water use below established limits for three consecutive months.
Barcelona, the region’s capital, currently uses 160 liters of water per resident per day, well below the limit of 200 liters. However, with tourists using an average of 163 liters per day and luxury hotels exceeding 240 liters, there is growing pressure to conserve water during the drought.
The restrictions would not include water used for filling swimming pools, but the government has loosened rules to allow privately-owned pools to be refilled in severe drought conditions if declared a “climate refuge” for residents seeking relief from the heat. Additionally, private desalination installations are now permitted for use, a demand from hotel owners.
Despite a wet spring improving reservoir levels from 15% to 18% capacity, Catalonia has maintained its water emergency restrictions, including significant reductions in water use for irrigation, herd animals, and industry. The region has been hit hard by a historic drought driven by climate change, with authorities emphasizing the need for continued conservation efforts.
As Catalonia grapples with the ongoing drought crisis, the government is taking proactive measures to ensure sustainable water usage and mitigate the impact of water scarcity on both residents and tourists in the region.