29 March 2025
World Water Series – Water Conservation in North Macedonia
Nestled in Southeastern Europe, North Macedonia boasts a rich cultural heritage with ancient civilisation, and stunning landscapes. Known for its exports of wine, tobacco, and fresh and preserved produce, the country faces a pressing issue: water scarcity. This issue is driven by climate change, inadequate infrastructure, and overuse of water resources.
In this blog we will explore the challenges North Macedonia faces and the solutions being implemented to address them.
The Impact of a Changing Climate
North Macedonia is one of the most arid countries in the Balkan region. Its climate is characterised by warm, dry summers, and cold winters with heavy snowfall. However, rising temperatures and declining rainfall are disrupting this balance. The alpine and subalpine regions, home to endemic species is particularly vulnerable, while floods and droughts are threatening agricultural productivity.
The changing climate is also affecting river basins, leading to insufficient water supplies for both households and farming communities. Without intervention, these challenges will only intensify in the coming years.
The Role of Infrastructure
North Macedonia’s hydrographic landscape is distinctive within the Balkin Mountain range, forming a natural basin with 84 percent of its water resources sourced within its own borders. Despite this advantage, the country’s infrastructure is a significant obstacle.
Whilst 80 percent of the population has access to a centralised drinking water system, much of the infrastructure is outdated and in need of urgent replacement or reconstruction. Upgrading these systems is essential to prevent further inefficiencies and water loss.
Solutions to the Water Crisis
- Sustainable Farm Practices: Transitioning to organic farming, crop rotation, and eco-friendly pest control can enhance soil health. With a growing demand for organic and fairtrade produce, adopting these practices presents an opportunity to increase profitability. Additionally, investing in irrigation systems suited to local conditions and exploring alternatives to tobacco farming can reduce negative impacts on health and promote long-term sustainability.
- Financial Support: Programs like the National Strategy for Agriculture and Rural Development provide hope for the future by supporting the transition to climate smart and eco-friendly farming practices. Additionally, framework loans from investment banks offer municipalities the opportunity to address various challenges, from infrastructure upgrades to the construction of filter stations.
- Infrastructure Improvements: Constructing wastewater collection and treatment systems and upgrading pipelines can prevent water loss and contamination.
- Climate Adaption: Introducing drought-resistant plant species through genetic breeding can help protect agriculture from changing weather patterns.
- Rainwater Harvesting: Collecting and storing rainwater can supplement groundwater reserves and provide alternative to current water sources.
- Efficient Irrigation: Techniques like drip irrigation can hydrate crops effectively while conserving water.
The Way Forward
Research indicates that North Macedonia could face economic damage equivalent to 4 per cent of its gross domestic product by 2050 due to climate change. In the last 20 years alone, extreme weather events have caused over a billion Australian dollars in damage.
By investing in modern infrastructure, sustainable farming, and climate-resistant strategies, North Macedonia can mitigate the effects of water scarcity and build a more sustainable future. The steps taken today will determine the resilience of the nation’s water resources for future generations.
