Managing water wisely in Guimarães, Portugal

#WaterWiseEU campaign partner, the Municipality of Guimarães (Portugal), has shared how they are achieving sustainable water management. Among other successes, the municipality’s strategy has led to a remarkable reduction in water losses of 16% between 2017-2024.

Guimarães faced significant challenges with water management, including water leaks, river water quality, and the territory's dispersed nature. The aging infrastructure had persistent water leaks, leading to substantial water loss, undermining efficiency, and sustainability efforts. By working with key stakeholders such as local government, community organizations, educational institutions, universities and the private sector, Guimarães is addressing the water challenges the city faces today. 

What are the main issues? 

The diffuse and dispersed settlement pattern of the region complicates efficient water distribution and management. It is therefore crucial to implement advanced monitoring, leak detection, and pollution control measures to safeguard water resources and ensure sustainable development. 

The main goals of the municipality's Green Transition strategy for 2030 as regards water are to decrease water loss, improve service quality, stabilize water pressures, and minimize the carbon footprint linked to water production and distribution. 

Multiple water-management organisations are taking several actions to promote water recycling and enhance water resources, with strong investments in research and development, and nnironmental education. 

Major challenges include obtaining funding for pipeline replacements, ensuring ongoing replacement procedures, and carrying out high-quality, efficient repairs with skilled personnel. 

Several innovative strategies are being implemented:

• Measurement and Control Zones: All 195 supply zones are monitored to ensure efficient water usage.
• Active Leak Detection: Dedicated teams detect non-visible leaks promptly, reducing water loss and preventing infrastructure damage.
• Pressure Management: Utilizing 175 pressure-reducing valves to maintain optimal service conditions and extend the lifespan of distribution infrastructure.
• Pipeline Replacement: Short-term and medium-term plans target critical and priority components for replacement.
• Pool Water Reuse: An innovative pilot project repurposes water discharged from municipal pools for street cleaning, including UNESCO Heritage Area, promoting circular water usage​;
• Water Saving Strategies: Improving water efficiency by reducing water consumption in municipal-owned buildings through targeted conservation measures, advanced water-saving technologies, and capacity building for human resources.

• Public Water Fountains: Increasing the number of public water fountains ensures equitable access to clean drinking water for all residents, promoting public health and hydration, and reducing plastic bottle usage.

   

What are the results of these initiatives? 

These initiatives have led to:

• 100% monitoring of supply zones;
• Improved leak detection and faster repairs;
• Better pressure management, extending equipment lifespan;
• A remarkable reduction in water losses by 16% between 2017-2024;
• Successful implementation and replication of the pool water reuse project, conserving significant amounts of water (30,000 l/day); 
• Enhanced public access to water through new public fountains, ensuring hydration for all citizens.

Community involvement in environmental education through projects like Ave For All, Action Plan for Water Circularity and Green Brigades fostered a culture of sustainability. These initiatives are sustained through continuous monitoring, community engagement, and integrating innovative practices into urban management plans.

Guimarães' comprehensive approach to water management demonstrates significant improvements in efficiency and sustainability. This model can inspire other cities to adopt similar strategies, contributing to broader climate goals.