What do we see?
The figures do not show a clear trend for water consumption in the period between 2000 and 2018. In general, we do see a decrease in the consumption of groundwater and tap water during that period. Surface water consumption increases after 2009, which can be attributed to a new liquid gas installation in Zeebrugge. We also see that the consumption of other types of water (e.g. rainwater, water from products) is increasing.
What’s the aim?
Even though the Flemish government has not set any objectives for water consumption, it is still beneficial to aim for a reduction. Flanders currently uses a combination of awareness-raising, taxes and permits to steer water consumption in the right direction.
What does this indicator measure?
This indicator measures the total water consumption (excl. cooling water) for human activities in Flanders. The Flemish Environment Agency calculates the annual consumption of the various types of water, such as groundwater, tap water or surface water, using surveys, invoiced consumption, tax data and assumptions.
