Why water?
Critical infrastructure and cross-sector impact
Water is a critical element in food production (e.g., irrigation of crops, drinking water for livestock), processing, and waste. Moreover, process water and wastewater act as a collection medium of contaminants present in food and feed.
Contaminated water can spread chemical, biological, or radiological agents very fast throughout the food supply chain. It can serve as a medium for rapid contamination across various points in the food system, from farm to processing and beyond.
Climate change and vulnerability
The water supply chain is increasingly affected by climate change, which intensifies challenges such as water scarcity, flooding, and pollution. This makes water particularly vulnerable to unintentional contamination but also attractive target for intentional sabotage, especially in areas with existing water stress.
Significant impact on multiple food chains
Water contamination can have cascading effects across various sectors. For example, contaminated water used for irrigation could affect cereal crops, while contaminated water sources for shellfish farms would directly affect the shellfish supply chain. Thus, protecting the water supply chain from CBR threats is critical for maintaining the safety and integrity of the broader food system.