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Challenges in Implementing European Regulation on Water Reuse for Sustainable Agriculture
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DOI：10.1002/eet.70082.png)
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Abstract
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The Regulation (EU) 2020/741 on minimum requirements for water reuse is a key policy for sustainable water management under growing water scarcity in Europe. This paper examines expert perspectives on the challenges involved in implementing EU regulation for water reuse in agriculture, aiming to broaden existing research, which is largely focused on technical aspects, while governance and socio-economic perspectives remain less explored. The research adopts Stakeholder Theory as the analytical framework with an embedded case study design. A total of 23 semi-structured expert interviews were conducted to collect general stakeholder perspectives at European and national levels, complemented by an in-depth view of a water reuse scheme in Germany. The findings show that the implementation of the regulation is shaped by interlinked legal, technical, economic and social factors. From a legal perspective, results indicate concern about divergence between EU-wide standards and the potential introduction of stricter national rules that may reduce feasibility. From a technical and economic perspective, substantial investments in monitoring, disinfection and risk management could put pressure on small and resource-limited utilities. Socially, acceptance among farmers, retailers and consumers is crucial, since reclaimed water can only be used if it is viewed as safe, marketable and supported by transparent communication. This study underscores the importance of stakeholder engagement and provides insights to support the uptake of water reuse in Europe.
Keywords:
agricultural irrigation
Regulation (EU) 2020/741
stakeholder theory
water governance
water reuse
water scarcity
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