Freshwater reservoir

Studies highlight how seriously the decline in water levels in the Alps threatens Europe. The Alps are the continent’s largest freshwater reservoir. They supply around 40% of the water for rivers, agriculture, and drinking water supplies. However, climate change is causing snow to melt earlier, the soil to store less water, and evaporation to increase.

At Königssee in Bavaria, researchers from the University of Augsburg are showing that summer rainfall is decreasing. This has direct consequences for the Danube. In Switzerland, measurements by the University of Zurich prove that snowfields are shrinking. These snowfields are crucial because they provide two-thirds of Alpine runoff. Forecasts indicate that the Rhine could carry up to 20% less water in the future.

The consequences are far-reaching: empty reservoirs, dry rivers, crop failures, and energy shortages. Millions of people are affected. The Alps are losing their function as a natural water reservoir. This has serious consequences for ecology, the economy, and society. Scientists are calling for rapid adaptation measures and sustainable use of resources to secure the water supply in the long term.

If you would like to learn more about the water challenges facing Europe and the world and how dry separation toilets can help, connect with us and let’s work together to make better use of resources.

Source: What happens when the Alps no longer supply water? – 3sat media library

Photo: https://www.pexels.com/de-de/foto/mit-schnee-bedeckte-gebirgszuge-714256/