Author(s): Angelos Alamanos; Phoebe Koundouri
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Water resources management; Water requirements; Domestic demand; Industrial demand; Agricultural demand
Abstract: This study addresses the estimation of water requirements across various sectors -- domestic, agricultural, livestock, and industrial -- within Europe (including the EU 27, UK, Norway, Switzerland, and the Balkans). Traditionally, water demand assessments have been limited to specific sectors or regions, making comprehensive data-driven assessments challenging. This research introduces a simple, data-efficient model developed in MS Excel and Python, allowing monthly estimates per sector. Urban water needs are calculated by multiplying population by daily per capita consumption rates. Livestock needs are similarly assessed using animal population and consumption data. Industrial water usage is derived from typical consumption rates per product types, and economic activity levels across key industries. Agricultural water demand is estimated based on crop mix, climatic, and irrigation factors. The model's results highlight significant variability in water needs across countries and sectors, validated by cross-referencing various data sources and literature. The study highlights the necessity to consider strategies for improving water demand management.
Year: 2024