between SDGs and EU water policies, and states that digital solutions and innovations are required to ensure sustainable and cost-efficient water management. In this way, according to the Authors, it is possible to tackle challenges such as climate change, pollution and depletion of water resources and cyber threats.152 The UfM report presents a comprehensive literature review on the current state of digitization in the water sector in the Mediterranean region. The analysis focuses on understanding ongoing digitization efforts, assessing the value potential, and identifying key challenges. Additionally, the report explores case studies, research papers, and reports that highlight successful digital transformation initiatives, with a specific focus on Spain and its PERTE (Permit for the Recovery, Transformation, and Economic Resilience) plan, a successful initiative for the digitization of the water cycle.153 The European Water Resilience Strategy of 2025 is a comprehensive strategy setting out a pathway to make Europe water resilient, “providing water security for all.” This aims at protecting and restoring the water cycle, securing clean and affordable water and sanitation, creating a sustainable and water-resilient environment, supporting the EU competitiveness, and building a water-smart economy in Europe.154 According to the European Commission, EU legislation and policies, including the Green Deal, provide a strong basis to achieve these objectives. The Strategy fully recognises that Member States are free to organise their water supply systems as they see fit, within the boundaries of EU laws.155 It identifies five areas of EU action: (i) governance and implementation; (ii) finance, investments and infrastructure; (iii) digitization; (iv) research and innovation, industry and skills; and (v) security and preparedness.156 The Strategy plays a crucial role in supporting Member States’ initiatives and enhance crossborder water cooperation. As a consequence, through the implementation of current EU water legislation and through over 30 actions, Member States will be in condition to manage water more efficiently.157 As for the digitization of the water sector, the Strategy points out that digitization has significant potential for revolutionising water management and promoting sustainable water use. 152 U. Stein, et al., Digitalisation in the Water Sector, cit., p. 6, 13 ff., 19. 153 UfM, Digital Transformation for Water and Sustainable Development, cit., p. 14 ff. 154 EU Commission, European Water Resilience Strategy, cit., p. 2-3. 155 EU Commission, European Water Resilience Strategy, cit., p. 3. 156 EU Commission, European Water Resilience Strategy, cit., p. 3. 157 EU Commission, European Water Resilience Strategy, cit., p. 3, and passim. 458 FRANCESCO GASPARI | LUIGI CAMERIERO
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