Desalination by reverse osmosis is the most common method of obtaining potable water from the sea. Already widely used in the Middle East, the Pacific Countries, America and even Europe, it ensures water security in many countries. However, it is too early to call this method “what will save us from global water shortage” because it is still too energy inefficient.

The severe winter drought left most of Italy with critically low levels of water. Yet, for most Italians droughts are still seen as a temporary problem.