In 2023, the fresh surface water abstraction for irrigation in Italy stood at 16.0 billion cubic meters. The forecast indicates a gradual decline from 15.88 billion cubic meters in 2024 to 15.53 billion cubic meters by 2028. This represents a consistent annual reduction of 0.57% over the five-year period, highlighting efforts towards water conservation.
Future trends to watch for:
- Climate change impacts, including more frequent droughts, may necessitate further reductions in water use.
- Technological advancements in irrigation could enhance efficiency, potentially offsetting some supply constraints.
- Policy changes aimed at sustainable agriculture may further influence water usage patterns.