Economy event focuses on water

The day of the economy, now called Cap Éco, brought together the three chambers of commerce in Bordeaux on October 14, with the theme of water. The event focused on the importance of water for various sectors in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, with experts, businesses, and farmers sharing their insights and experiences.

Water is central to agriculture

Water is a key factor in agriculture, according to Bernard Layre, president of the regional agricultural chamber of Nouvelle-Aquitaine. He emphasized that climate change and recent summers highlight the need for better water management, storage, and sustainability. Currently, 90% of agricultural areas in the region are under winter cover, and efforts are ongoing to adapt farming practices to changing conditions.

Hydroclimatic study predicts changes

A hydroclimatic study commissioned by the Banque Populaire presented findings indicating an expected rise of 2.5 °C in average annual temperature by 2050. Summer precipitation, from April to September, is projected to decrease by about 18%. However, water availability is expected to be higher in Limousin and the Pyrénées-Atlantiques. Agricultural water needs are anticipated to increase by 40% compared to the past decade.

Water management efforts across sectors

All economic sectors are showing awareness of water management. For instance, 50% of artisans in the Chamber of Crafts have developed strategic water management plans. In industry, water withdrawals have decreased by 30% since 2012, and 85% of used water is returned to the environment. In agriculture, practices such as agroforestry, crop diversification, and cover crops are being adopted, although irrigation remains essential for some sectors.

Irrigation and crop changes

Irrigation remains a major water use in agriculture, particularly for vegetable farming, fruit growing, and other high-value crops. Corn, once a major irrigated crop, now accounts for only 27% of irrigated areas, down from 61% in 2010. This shift supports longer crop rotations, diversification, and food security. Guillaume Chamouleau, an irrigating farmer in Charente, emphasizes the need to collect water during surplus periods with minimal environmental impact.

Future water challenges and solutions

Élodie Galko, director of the Adour Garonne water agency, warns that without action, there could be a shortage of half a liter of water per person in the basin by 2050. Richard Arcos, vice president of Soltena, suggests that frugality alone won’t be enough and that solutions like water storage and desalination, used in other countries, should be considered. Additional funding from increased fees on the Adour-Garonne basin could support these efforts.

Regional commitments and strategies

Alain Rousset, president of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, highlighted progress in agricultural practices and confirmed continued funding for hillside reservoirs and watering points. He stressed the importance of protecting water catchment areas due to the high cost of water purification. The Prefect of Nouvelle-Aquitaine emphasized the need for inclusive discussions on substitute reserves and mentioned strategies like rechanneling small streams, adopting less water-intensive crops, and maintaining wetlands.