According to Vítor Proença, measures include reducing water loss in distribution networks and exploring seawater desalination. Covering five municipalities, the plan, active until 2035, aims to address environmental challenges and ensure sustainable resource management, according to the Intermunicipal Community of Alentejo Litoral (CIMAL).

The plan also stresses the need for greater resilience against climate risks, with actions to “reduce exposure to climate hazards” and enhance the region’s adaptive capacity.

The document highlights the urgency of safeguarding the Alentejo coastline due to rising sea levels, particularly along the Tróia-Sines arc. Vítor Proença emphasised that the region’s economy, driven by agriculture, industry, and tourism, heavily depends on water, making conservation crucial.

As the president explains, “The Alentejo Litoral has substantial underground water reserves, but they are not limitless,” warning of the impact of prolonged droughts and reduced precipitation. “We will need to increase water savings and explore alternatives, such as desalination”, he added.

The plan includes 41 specific actions to be executed over 10 years, with a focus on monitoring saltwater intrusion in river estuaries and protecting vital agricultural activities like rice production. Efforts will also address fire prevention and the region’s overall resilience to extreme weather.