Spain and Sustainable Development Goal 6: The main challenges of water policy for residential use

Abstract

Despite the expectation that Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) would not pose significant challenges for developed countries, substantial issues in residential water management persist in Spain, potentially hindering the goal's full realization. This research examines the legal, economic, and social barriers that affect equitable and sustainable access to water, with a focus on affordability, the feasibility of using nonconventional water sources like recycled water, and the role of water utilities in promoting sustainable practices. The main objective of the study is to identify how Spain can improve its water policies to ensure fair access for all citizens, including economically vulnerable populations. Additionally, it explores public attitudes toward non-traditional water sources and analyzes which types of water utilities are more committed to driving conservation efforts, as well as the methods they use to encourage sustainable water usage. Using a combination of qualitative legal analysis and quantitative data from Spanish municipalities, the research gathers insights through public surveys and applies statistical models to evaluate the relationships between water tariffs, public acceptance of recycled water, and how different types of water utility ownership influence conservation behaviors. The findings show that while physical access to water is nearly universal, economic barriers remain a critical issue, with many low-income households at risk of water poverty. Public resistance to the use of recycled water would pose a challenge if authorities were to implement it for domestic purposes. Moreover, the study reveals that while there is room for improvement, publicly owned utilities are more proactive in promoting water conservation compared to private companies. The research calls for the creation of an independent regulatory agency to address regional disparities in water affordability and management. It also emphasizes the need for targeted public education campaigns to increase acceptance of recycled water, along with stronger regulatory frameworks to ensure that all water utilities actively promote watersaving practices.