Water stress in Europe
The first European Environment Agency/United Nations Environment Programme (EEA/UNEP) "State of the Environment Message" addresses the issue of "Water stress in Europe". This topic was chosen because of the major impact of water on every aspect of human existence, and because its availability and quality are severely threatened in many parts of Europe. Many initiatives aimed at radically improving the way water resources are used and managed across Europe are being taken by the EU, UNEP and individual European countries. The changes being introduced, however, need the informed support of all European citizens. Both the more efficient use of water by households, industry and agriculture, and new political agreements on water management between regions and across political boundaries are needed if severe water crises are to be avoided. The purpose of the EEA/UNEP Message is to help build the public understanding and political support needed for improving the way Europe's water resources are used and managed.