A driver of economic growth, Romania’s agricultural sector is also one of the main reasons for Romania’s water issues: On one hand, the sector relies heavily on water for irrigation thus the quality and quantity of water can significantly affect the crop yields. On the other hand, agriculture contributes to water pollution through the runoff of fertilisers and pesticides. This affects not only the quality of the water but also the environment.

Particularly along the valleys there are alarming concentrations of pollutants. This is evident in many areas such as the meadows of Jiu, Olt, Argeș, Ialomița, Prahova, Buzău, Siret, Mureş, and Someș. The same phenomenon of pollution concentration is observed in industrial platforms.

Romania also struggles with incomplete public water supply connections, with only around 57% of the population connected, the lowest rate in the EU. The significant leakage rate of water supply systems further highlights the necessity for investment in network infrastructure.

Additionally, flooding remains a pressing concern in Romania, ranking among the EU countries most susceptible to significant flooding occurrences. This is exacerbated by heavy local rainfall, increased urbanisation, unplanned floodplain development, reduced riverbed capacity, and deforestation.

The rapid expansion of cities and town into areas that are prone to flooding represents a significant issue as it increases the risk and impact of flooding. To address this problem, Romania is not only focusing on preventive measures but also on improving its early warning systems and disaster response capabilities.