Misconceptions in Aquifer Over-exploitation: Implications for Water Policy in Southern Europe

Abstract

Groundwater is a key component of any sustainable water management policy, particularly in arid and semi-arid countries where water resources are scarce. Dosi and Tonin (Chapter 2, this volume, Tables 2.8 and 2.9) provide an overview of the importance of groundwater use by sector in southern European countries. While national averages do not account for the strong regional differences in groundwater use, it is apparent that groundwater plays a key role as an integral part of the national water management strategies in many of these countries.