Water regulation in Italy and the European Union: urban water cycle and beyond to respond to new challenges and directives

The evolution of water legislation in Italy and the European Union (EU) presents both opportunities and challenges for a sustainable regulatory framework on water. With the implementation of updated directives such as the Urban Waste Water Treatment Directive (UWWTD) or the Drinking Water Directive (DWD), as well as regulations on water reuse, policy makers, researchers, authorities, utility companies and sector stakeholders must navigate complex regulatory requirements, while addressing issues such as climate change, water scarcity, pollution control and the integration of the circular economy.

This workshop aims to provide a comprehensive overview of regulatory progress, economic and financial mechanisms supporting water sector compliance, and the future of water governance and public-private partnerships in Italy and the EU.

Session Chair

Donato Berardi, Laboratorio REF

Program

14.30 Welcome
Donato Berardi, Laboratorio REF

14.35-14.45 Lessons from MTI-4 and updates for 2026-2029
Samir Traini, Laboratorio REF

14.45-14.55 The evolution of water utilities’ mission within the framework of the European Water Resilience strategy: opportunities and challenges
Milo Fiasconaro, Acqua Pubblica Europea (APE) 

14.55-15.05 How to finance investments in water services: lessons from the EU
Milo Fiasconaro, Acqua Pubblica Europea (APE)

15.05-16.45 Round table

Moderator:
Donato Berardi, Laboratorio REF 

Speakers:
Ester Benigni, Gruppo A2A
Maria Martoccia, Gruppo Acea
Luigi De Caro, Acquedotto Pugliese
Filippo De Simoi, Gruppo Hera
Alessandro Cecchi, Gruppo Iren
Lorenzo Persi, MM
Marco Pattano, Gruppo CAP
Andrea Lanuzza, Aquanexa
Francesca Menabuoni, Suez
Lorenzo Vidus Rosin, Steinzeug-Keramo

16.45-17.00 Final discussion and closing remarks
Maria Cristina Colorito, ARERA