As climate conditions shift and water scarcity intensifies, water management is becoming a critical issue for the olive oil industry across the Mediterranean. With olive farming deeply tied to regional ecosystems and traditional practices, each producing country is now facing the challenge of balancing productivity with sustainability—particularly when it comes to water use.

In Croatia, most olive farms still rely on rain-fed methods, which have sustained local groves for generations. However, with changing rainfall patterns and increasing drought risks, some producers are turning to drip irrigation systems to increase resilience while keeping water use efficient.

Greece faces recurring water shortages, especially in its drier regions. While traditional methods still dominate, there is a growing shift toward more sustainable irrigation systems. Drip irrigation is gradually being adopted by more olive growers as they look to maintain yields while preserving this precious resource.

In Italy, where weather extremes and prolonged dry spells are increasingly common, innovation is leading the way. Farmers in regions like Puglia and Sicily are beginning to experiment with smart irrigation systems powered by AI and sensor technology. These systems optimize water delivery based on real-time soil and climate data, helping producers reduce waste and protect their crops.

Portugal’s olive farms, especially in the Alentejo region, are already well-integrated into modern irrigation infrastructure. Still, water use remains relatively high. While irrigation systems are improving, experts agree that further investment in technology and training is needed to ensure long-term efficiency and sustainability.

Meanwhile, Spain stands out as a leader in water-efficient olive farming. With 2.75 million hectares of olive groves, the country has invested heavily in advanced irrigation technologies and precision agriculture techniques. These innovations are helping Spanish producers maximize water efficiency without compromising quality or yield, setting a standard for others to follow.

Across the sector, the pressure to adapt is clear. As olive oil production grows and environmental pressures mount, water conservation is no longer optional—it’s a necessity. Embracing innovation, sharing best practices, and supporting farmers with training and resources will be essential to ensuring a sustainable future for this iconic Mediterranean product.