The European Commission and the interconnection of water networks
The European Commission could endorse the interconnection of Tarragona and Barcelona water networks despite concerns about the impact on the Ebro, as long as there are reasons of greater public interest, such as the supply of drinking water in Barcelona. Community sources emphasize the importance of a thorough assessment of the environmental impact before proceeding with large transfers, since these can endanger the objectives of the Habitats and Water directives.
Exceptions for reasons of greater general interest
Despite the possible negative repercussions, European regulations provide for exceptions for the interconnection of waters if a higher general interest is justified, especially related to human health or public safety. This includes the possibility of going ahead with the project despite a negative environmental impact, as long as there are no viable alternatives at reasonable costs.
Impact on protected areas and exceptions
National authorities must ensure that plans or projects do not negatively affect the integrity of protected areas, such as the Ebro delta, which is part of the Natura 2000 network. However, European regulations allow exceptions in cases of reasons imperatives of first-order public interest, including social or economic reasons, provided that a plan of compensatory measures is presented to protect the overall coherence of Natura 2000.
Conclusions
The decision on the interconnection of the water networks of the Consorci d’Aigües de Tarragona and Aigües Ter-Llobregat will have to go through an exhaustive assessment of the environmental impact and the justification of a superior general interest. Despite the possible negative implications, European regulations provide for exceptions in specific cases, as long as unfeasible alternatives are presented and appropriate compensatory measures are taken.
