The European Commission has unveiled its proposal for the 2028-2034 Multiannual Financial Framework (MFF), a nearly €2 trillion, seven-year budget that allocates significant funding streams toward achieving the EU’s water resilience and environmental objectives. Presented last week by President Ursula von der Leyen, the proposal addresses the critical need for investment in the water sector.
The framework is proposed at a time when an estimated €255 billion is needed by 2030 to meet existing EU water legislation and enhance water efficiency across the continent. The new MFF is positioned as a cornerstone for achieving the goals outlined in the EU Water Resilience Initiative.
Key provisions within the proposal aimed at supporting the water sector include:
– A new European Competitiveness Fund (ECF): This fund is designed to channel strategic investments into the development and deployment of clean technologies and decarbonisation efforts, directly financing the adoption of water-smart solutions and infrastructure.
– A reinforced Horizon Europe Programme: With a proposed budget of €175 billion, the EU’s flagship research and innovation programme will continue to foster cutting-edge projects. Underpinned by a strict ‘Do No Significant Harm’ principle, Horizon Europe will support both public and private sector ‘moonshot’ initiatives aimed at scaling up circular water solutions and other disruptive technologies.
Next Steps
The Commission’s proposal will now be negotiated by the co-legislators—the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union—who must both give their approval. Stakeholders across the water sector are highlighting this legislative process as a crucial opportunity to ensure that water is formally recognized and sufficiently funded as a strategic asset for the European Union.
