New DG ENV Newsletter: “Water Wise Farming” – Key Messages for Sustainable Water Use in Agriculture

Latest insights now available for the FARMWISE community – take part in Europe’s first Water Resilience Forum!

The European Commission’s Directorate-General for Environment (DG ENV) has released a new edition of its official newsletter, “Water Wise Farming” — highlighting how smarter water management in agriculture is essential for Europe’s environmental resilience and food security.

As climate change intensifies droughts, floods and water scarcity across the EU, the agricultural sector is facing increasing pressure to produce more with less water — while also preserving ecosystems, preventing pollution, and supporting healthy soils.

Key topics covered in the newsletter

1⃣ Spotlight on efficient irrigation technologies
The newsletter shares practical examples from across Europe where farmers are using:

• Drip irrigation to minimise water losses
• Soil-moisture sensors and smart weather tools to optimise irrigation timing
• Leak detection and system upgrades to reduce waste throughout distribution networks
  These innovations are already reducing pressure on rivers, aquifers and lakes — while maintaining yields.

2⃣ Policy measures supporting a water-smart Europe
Europe’s regulatory framework is evolving to support sustainable use of water in agriculture:

• The Water Reuse Regulation is enabling safe reuse of treated wastewater for irrigation — especially valuable in water-scarce regions.
• The upcoming Soil Monitoring Law aims to improve soil quality and structure, enhancing its natural ability to retain water.
• Work continues on nature-based solutions such as wetlands and riparian buffer zones to protect water bodies from nutrient run-off.

3⃣ Financing and implementation support
DG ENV highlights EU funding routes for farms and regions transitioning to more resilient water management systems — relevant for local authorities, water agencies, and agricultural cooperatives engaged in FARMWISE pilot areas.

4⃣ Events and opportunities for stakeholder engagement
The newsletter invites participation in the Water Resilience Forum on 8 December — a key opportunity for knowledge exchange and to shape future collaboration on water-smart agriculture.

Why this matters for FARMWISE stakeholders

This DG ENV update closely aligns with FARMWISE priorities, including:
helping farmers adapt to climate-driven water risks
developing more collaborative local water governance
strengthening links between policy, science and farming practice
promoting solutions that support both environmental and economic sustainability

The examples and policy direction shared reinforce the importance of actions taking place in FARMWISE pilot regions — and offer additional resources for authorities, water managers, researchers, and farming communities engaged in the project.

Stay informed

Read the full DG ENV newsletter here:
https://ec.europa.eu/newsroom/env/newsletter-archives/68541