The Albufeira Convention, an agreement that has been in place for 25 years, sets the framework for joint cooperation and shared management of rivers flowing from Spain to Portugal. However, with increasing droughts and water scarcity due to climate change, questions arise about whether the convention’s rules are adequate for the current situation in the Iberian Peninsula.
Investigations funded by Journalism Fund Europe’s Earth Investigations Program have revealed a culture that prioritizes economic gain and resource exploitation over river conservation and water reserve management. Instead of reducing water consumption during droughts, there is an acceleration in usage, leading to tensions between the two countries.
Part II of the investigative series focuses on projects that uphold an extractivist paradigm, particularly in agriculture. Intensive irrigated agriculture, which uses the most water, has come under scrutiny during times of drought. Disputes over water usage have been ongoing, especially concerning the Tagus and Guadiana rivers, which are vital for agriculture on both sides of the border.
The management of water distribution between Portugal and Spain is crucial for maintaining ecological flows and supporting agricultural needs. However, the current system of releasing water based on quarterly and annual flow targets leads to irregular water discharges, impacting ecosystems, dams, and agriculture.
Spanish and Portuguese farmers have been at odds over water usage, with each side vying for control over water resources. The competition intensifies during droughts, as seen in the disparities in water levels between reservoirs in Alentejo and Huelva. Despite the challenges, cooperation between the two countries remains elusive.
Intensive irrigation practices, driven by consumer demand and economic incentives, have exacerbated the water crisis in the region. The expansion of crops like avocados and citrus fruits has led to increased water consumption and environmental concerns. While some argue that these crops are necessary for economic growth, others highlight their detrimental impact on water resources.
The pricing of water for irrigation plays a significant role in shaping agricultural choices. Subsidies and low water prices in Portugal incentivize intensive irrigation practices, leading to overexploitation of water resources. Calls for selling water at its true cost aim to encourage efficient water management and reduce competition between Portuguese and Spanish farmers.
Efforts to modernize water infrastructure and improve efficiency may help address water losses and reduce the need for large-scale water transfers. However, the debate continues on whether current agricultural practices are sustainable in the face of water scarcity and environmental challenges. Balancing economic interests with ecological concerns remains a key issue for the future of water management in the Iberian Peninsula.
