News

The irrigation water contamination crisis is seriously affecting Catalan agriculture, endangering both crop production and consumer health. The high presence of nitrates and other harmful substances in many agricultural water sources is causing concern among experts and professionals in the sector.

A Growing Problem

The origin of this contamination comes from several combined factors. Among them, the infiltration of slurry from intensive livestock farming, excessive use of chemical fertilizers, and industrial discharges stand out. These elements progressively deteriorate water quality, reducing its safety for agricultural irrigation.

According to various studies, many areas of Catalonia have nitrate levels above the threshold allowed by water quality regulations. This not only affects crops but also poses a risk to human health, especially in the consumption of contaminated drinking water.

Impact on Production and Health

The effects on crops manifest as lower harvest yields and the possible presence of harmful substances in food. This represents a serious threat to farmers, who see their economic activity compromised, and to consumers, who may be exposed to lower-quality and potentially hazardous products.

This situation also extends to the environment, with the degradation of aquifers and the reduction of biodiversity in areas affected by contaminated water.

Towards Sustainable Agriculture

To address this challenge, experts and organizations are calling for urgent and effective measures. Proposed solutions include improving livestock waste management, implementing water filtration and purification systems, and promoting more sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, stricter regulations are essential to limit the use of chemical fertilizers and control industrial discharges.

A Necessary Commitment

Administrations, companies, and professionals in the sector must work together to reverse this crisis. Implementing environmental protection policies and supporting farmers in the transition to sustainable production will be key to ensuring the sector’s viability and food safety in Catalonia.

Preserving water resources is fundamental to ensuring high-quality agriculture and a sustainable future. Without clean water, there can be no crops.