07/04/2020 (Agence Europe) – A new step was taken on Tuesday 7 April towards the formal adoption of the European regulation on the safe use of urban waste water for agricultural irrigation. The Council of the EU adopted its position at first reading by written procedure (see EUROPE 12461/40). In doing so, it confirmed the interinstitutional agreement reached in December on this legislation, which will make it possible to combat water shortages in agriculture, promote the circular economy through more efficient use of water resources and adapt to climate change. Member States that so wish may decide that it is not appropriate to use reclaimed water for agricultural irrigation on all or part of its territory. The Regulation must now be adopted by the European Parliament at second reading before it can be published in the Official Journal of the EU. (AN)