Access to clean, safe water is a human right. Yet population growth, a changing climate and ageing infrastructure are placing significant stress on existing water supplies. In light of these looming challenges, world leaders must take action to ensure that all populations have access to the water and sanitation services they need—both today and for decades to come. Water management is among the most important aspects of climate adaptation.
At Economist Impact, we see a path forward. The world needs to reduce water consumption, yes, but we also need to do more with the water we have—reducing waste and deploying technological solutions to stretch the life of freshwater resources. We must create opportunities for interdisciplinary, multi-stakeholder collective action towards the most pressing water challenges. All voices should be heard as we make the large-scale, systems-level changes necessary to ensure water access for all.
To work towards these goals, Economist Impact has developed the City Water Optimisation Index, a first-of-its-kind benchmarking tool that shifts the discourse on water from one of “doom and gloom’’ toward actionable, practical routes to sustainable, resilient water futures. The Index drives collaboration and coordination on how technological advancements and best practices can be leveraged to achieve sustainable urban water systems. It also serves as a tool for leaders and other water stakeholders to learn from their peers as they work to overcome water-related challenges.
If global leaders are to tackle the mounting climate crisis head-on, they must ensure water is part of the conversation at COP27—and beyond. At Economist Impact, we hope that the evidence-based and actionable measures of the City Water Optimisation Index can support these vital discussions, paving the way for a future where water is abundant, accessible and affordable.
