The Prince’s Government has activated the “vigilance” level of its drought response plan, aiming to encourage more responsible water use as conditions continue to deteriorate across the Principality. As the first stage of the response framework, the measure is designed to raise awareness among all water users and promote good practices, without introducing any usage restrictions at this stage.
The decision comes as Monaco, in line with the wider region, faces a significant rainfall deficit. Since the start of the year, precipitation recorded in Monaco has fallen more than 50 percent below seasonal norms. Against that backdrop, the Government said it had chosen to act now in order to encourage collective mobilisation before the situation potentially requires more restrictive measures.
As the first level of the drought response plan, “vigilance” relies primarily on individual responsibility. Residents are being asked to adopt simple daily habits, such as running washing machines and dishwashers only with full loads, limiting garden watering, favouring water-efficient equipment, and avoiding non-essential water use. These small, accessible steps are intended to help preserve the resource over the longer term.
Businesses whose activities involve significant water use are also receiving targeted guidance tailored to their sector. Recommendations include postponing pool filling and draining where possible, prioritising water-efficient equipment, adjusting the timing of certain water discharges, and recycling cleaning water wherever feasible.
The Government stressed that protecting Monaco’s water resources is a shared responsibility, one that depends on the combined efforts of residents, businesses and public authorities alike. Officials said they would continue monitoring the situation closely, adapting their response in a gradual, responsible and proportionate manner as needed.