What is water abstraction – and why is it crucial to regulate it?
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Ireland
Protecting and improving the environment as a valuable asset for the people of Ireland.
Water abstraction is the removal or diversion of water from a natural resource such as a river, lake, spring or groundwater. It’s undertaken for many different reasons, including drinking water supply, use in agriculture or industry, or for hydropower.
??Regulating water abstractions is important to ensure sustainable use and management of our water resources.
??Maintaining adequate water levels and flows protects our water resources and their ecological health.
?Correct management of water abstractions ensures our water resources are sustainable for future supply, support biodiversity and are resilient to climate change.?
In accordance with new regulations, the EPA is developing a licensing system to ensure that this practice is carried out sustainably. Initially, anyone abstracting over 2,000 cubic metres per day must apply for a license from the EPA. First applications for this are due at the end of February 2025.?
You can read more about this in our document, Principles of Water Abstractions and Associated Impoundments. The EPA is also developing further technical guidance in this area.?
Suggerimenti utili
PhD. Ireland, Africa, UK freshwater ecology, catchment management and water resources expert, Chair East Cork Rivers Trust, Co-Editor in Chief African Journal of Aquatic Science, board member IIED-Europe and NCI
3 周Liam Atherton, Martin Ferreira, Ian Morrissey