The Attica region, located in the southern part of Greece, includes the capital city of Athens and its surrounding areas. The region faces significant concerns related to water scarcity and droughts driven by its climate, which is characterized by long, hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Rainfall is concentrated in the winter months, with minimal precipitation during the summer. As a result, water supplies in reservoirs significantly decrease during prolonged dry periods or droughts, leading to water scarcity. 

While dry conditions are typical in the summer, the frequency and intensity of extended droughts have increased due to climate change. Reduced winter rainfall, coupled with higher evaporation rates from water bodies, makes it challenging to replenish water reserves. Increased heat and evaporation further reduce the availability of surface water, while extreme whether events, such as heatwaves and storms, are expected to become more frequent. These changes intensify the vulnerability of the region’s water resources. 

The growing population of Athens, along with urbanization, tourism, and agricultural needs, has significantly increased the demand for water, placing immense pressure on available resources. This demand, coupled with insufficient infrastructure in some areas, exacerbates water scarcity. Overuse of both surface water and groundwater has led to depletion of local sources and potential seawater contamination in coastal aquifers. Additionally, pollution from agricultural runoff (fertilizers and pesticides), untreated sewage, industrial discharge, and urban runoff further degrade the quality of both surface water and groundwater. 

To tackle these critical issues, scalable and transferable solutions can be implemented, focusing on water recycling and reuse, resource efficiency and conservation, decision-making tools, stakeholder engagement, public awareness and policy improvements.