Water is one of the Action Themes at the Climate Adaptation Summit (CAS) 2021.
Why is Water an Action Theme at CAS 2021?
Water is an essential resource for life on Earth, our societies and economies. It is used everywhere, from the production of food and commodities to consumption and sanitation.
Water surrounds us. However, an abundance of water can become a threat when sea levels rise or rains cause flooding. Similarly, droughts triggered by climate change and failing retention systems can cause water scarcity.
Floods and droughts increase with dramatic consequences for human life and economic systems.
Coastal cities and small island states, home to 10% of the world population, run increased flood risks.
Current water management systems cannot cope with the climate of tomorrow.
Clean water for agriculture, consumption and other uses becomes scarce. Crucial sources of water, like river basins and lakes, shrink in size and become polluted.
3.6 billion people, almost half the world’s population, currently lack sufficient water at least one month a year. By 2050, that will have risen to 5 billion.
Increased competition for water resources will fuel conflicts and lead to migration streams.
How is CAS 2021 going to make a difference on water?
The CAS 2021 Anchoring Event on Water will allow stakeholders to share best practices and coordinate actions to better manage water world-wide. This includes:
Invest in healthy watersheds. 90% of drainage basins, upland forests and wetlands that are connected to large cities need urgent support and improvements.
Enhance water infrastructure by building multipurpose reservoirs, interconnect regional water systems and improve groundwater recharge.
Get the water to where it’s needed most. Use the law or fiscal incentives to allocate water resources fairly and transparently.
Make cities water-smart. Employ price inducements. Fix leaks. Create clean water from waster, storms, or sea water.
Modernise irrigation systems that currently account for 70% of the world’s water use.
Collaborate with disaster management agencies. Meteorological, marine, and environmental institutes must join together for better weather and climate forecasting.
Retain floodwaters in reservoirs.
Expand public and private sector cooperation.
Plan and implement policies more efficiently.
Support water security in transboundary water.
Boost investments. Funds need to be tripled to meet Sustainable Development Goals for water (source: OECD).
