Environmental Concerns in Germany Spark Call for Water Pricing Reform
Germany’s water situation has raised serious concerns, with the former Federal Environment Minister, Steffi Lemke, urging the implementation of a nationwide water pricing system for large industrial consumers. According to Lemke, the current situation is “alarming” and demands “clear rules” on who can use how much water at what price.
Lemke, now a member of the Environmental Committee for the Green Party, emphasized the need for those who pollute and waste water to pay more, while those who protect and restore natural water sources, such as building up natural reservoirs, should receive better support.
A recent study by the Federal Association for the Environment and Nature Conservation in Germany (BUND) revealed that over half of the country’s districts are experiencing acute groundwater stress. The main causes, according to Lemke, are a lack of rainfall due to the climate crisis and excessive uncontrolled drainage of the landscape.
Additionally, Lemke pointed out that the over-extraction of water, particularly by a few large industrial consumers, is exacerbating the issue. Natural water storage systems, such as moors and river valleys, are enormous reservoirs that need to be protected and restored.
In some federal states, no water fees are being collected, which Lemke finds incomprehensible. She is calling for a more sustainable approach to water management, ensuring that those who use the resource pay their fair share.