Syros - South Aegean (GR)

About

The island of Syros, located in the South Aegean, faces significant seasonal water stress, driven by limited freshwater resources, tourism-driven demand spikes and a reliance on energy-intensive desalination. Within the RECREATE project, Syros serves as a crucial case study to explore how AWR can enhance water security in small, insular and climate-vulnerable communities.

RECREATE aims to support the planning and installation of a secondary piping network to distribute reclaimed wastewater for non-potable uses, helping reduce pressure on drinking water supplies. Monitoring will also play a central role, particularly in assessing water reuse performance and improving the cost-efficiency of desalination.

RECREATE focus in Syros:

• Plan and guide the development of a secondary network for reclaimed water
• Monitor and analyse desalination processes to enhance efficiency
• Conduct stress testing of the island’s water infrastructure
• Develop a simulation model of Syros' full water supply system, including desalination, groundwater sources and potable water distribution

Goals by the end of the project:

• Enable more sustainable and diversified water supply options for Syros
• Support local authorities in making data-informed decisions about water reuse
• Improve operational planning with a complete digital model of the water system
• Reduce the environmental footprint and cost of supplying water to island populations

The Syros case study illustrates how AWR and smart planning can help small islands overcome water scarcity, build resilience and adapt to increasing climate pressures.