Water loss in distribution networks: a problem that needs to be addressed

How to prevent water loss in italy through technology and efficient management

Water loss in Italy’s distribution network represents a major environmental, economic, and management issue. According to data released in recent years by ISTAT and ARERA, over 40% of the potable water introduced into the distribution network is lost before it reaches citizens. In a context of growing water scarcity and climate change, this situation raises urgent questions about the system’s sustainability.

The problem is widespread: it affects both small towns and large cities, with critical peaks in Southern Italy. The main causes are aging infrastructure, lack of scheduled maintenance, limited digitization of monitoring systems, and historically insufficient investment in network modernization.

There are solutions for better water resource management: modern plants and investments are necessary to reduce waste we can no longer afford.

The main causes of water loss in Italy

As highlighted by Fondazione Openpolis, based on ISTAT data, “Italy stands out as the EU country that withdraws the most potable water, equal to 156 cubic meters per capita per year. However, much of this water is lost before reaching citizens’ homes. Losses can occur between withdrawal, introduction, and distribution in municipal water networks.”

In particular, “these losses are significant and increasing across the country. Focusing on final losses—that is, the percentage of potable water lost out of the total volume introduced into distribution networks—in Italy in 2015 it amounted to 41.4% of the total. That’s water that doesn’t reach citizens’ homes. This figure increased from 37.4% in 2012, showing ongoing neglect of an issue that urgently needs to be addressed.”

But how does all this water get “lost”? Water losses in Italy are mainly of two types:

• Physical losses, due to pipe breaks, faulty joints, material corrosion, or structural failures.
   
• Apparent losses, related to measurement errors, lack of metering, or unauthorized withdrawals.
   

In many areas, Italy’s water network consists of pipes installed more than 50 years ago, built with materials that no longer meet modern standards. Additionally, the lack of digital monitoring systems makes it difficult to detect leaks in real time, which are often discovered only after long periods.

Another factor is the absence of a unified national strategy for water efficiency: fragmented management and inconsistent interventions help keep the loss rate high.

Environmental and economic impact of water loss in distribution networks

Water loss in distribution networks isn’t just a technical problem: it’s also a waste of a precious resource already under pressure from prolonged droughts, rising temperatures, and increasing use in agriculture and industry.

From an environmental perspective, water waste also means unnecessary energy consumption, since every liter lost was still extracted, treated, and pumped. This results in a higher impact in terms of CO₂ emissions associated with water production and distribution.

Economically, losses generate significant costs for both utility companies and end users. Lost water can’t be billed, impacting budgets and rates, and creating the need for costlier emergency interventions.

Solutions to water loss in distribution networks: monitoring, modernization, and innovation

Addressing the problem of water loss in networks requires an integrated, forward-looking vision that naturally cannot ignore significant investment in a strategic sector crucial for the health and well-being of citizens, businesses, and institutions.

Possible solutions include:

• Mapping and digitizing networks: equipping infrastructure with IoT sensors for real-time monitoring of flows and pressures to immediately detect anomalies.
   
• Upgrading pipelines: gradually replacing outdated pipes with more durable, resistant materials (such as reinforced plastic alloys or high-density polyethylene).
   
• Preventive maintenance: adopting a proactive approach with regular inspections to intervene before damage becomes critical.
   
• Recovery and reuse of treated water: integrating treatment and reuse systems to reduce pressure on the primary network and optimize available resources.
   

A future without waste is possible

Water loss in Italy’s distribution networks is a serious problem, but not an insurmountable one. With a strategy based on innovation, maintenance, and cooperation between the public and private sectors, it is possible to reduce waste, protect resources, and build a more modern, resilient, and efficient water system.

The transition toward sustainable water management also depends on adopting advanced technologies like those offered by Idro Group, which today represent a benchmark for those who want to tackle the future of water with responsibility and practicality.

Idro Group’s solutions for tackling the water crisis

In this context, Idro Group stands out as a reliable technology partner for addressing issues related to water loss and sustainable resource management. The company specializes in the design, construction, and management of plants for water treatment and reuse, in both civil and industrial settings.

Modern, technologically advanced plants make it possible to recycle treated, purified water, reducing waste of water resources at a time when drought, waste, and inefficiencies make them increasingly precious.

Among the services offered:

• Systems for reducing water losses: pressure and flow sensors, remote control and reading software, leak detection technologies.
   
• Wastewater treatment plants: modular, customized solutions for treating civil and industrial wastewater, with the possibility of reuse for irrigation, industrial processes, or environmental replenishment.
   
• Containerized and mobile treatment units: perfect for rapid interventions in areas lacking infrastructure, remote locations, or environmental emergencies.
   
• Solutions for reusing treated water: helping close the water cycle and reduce withdrawals from natural sources.
   

Idro’s approach focuses on operational efficiency, environmental sustainability, and design flexibility to meet the specific needs of each area or utility. Adopting innovative technologies and water reuse strategies brings not only environmental benefits but also economic advantages.

Contact IDRO Group to discover the solution best suited to your needs and start immediately reducing your water footprint and improving water resource management.