We are at a pivotal moment in managing water, our planet’s most essential resource. The Global Commission on the Economics of Water’s report highlights that the global water cycle is imbalanced, threatening our water security, sustainable development, climate change efforts, and biodiversity.
A key factor in addressing these challenges is data, which is crucial for transforming how we value and govern water. However, there are significant gaps in water data collection and quality, which have been declining. The fragmented data landscape is due to limited institutional capacity, lack of citizen engagement, insufficient funding, isolated management practices, and hesitance to share data publicly. These gaps are evident across various hydrological and administrative levels, affecting both blue and green water data, with green water data often neglected.
To succeed in the missions outlined in the report, such as improving water efficiency in agriculture, protecting natural habitats, creating a circular water economy, developing low-water-intensity clean energy, and ensuring safe water for all children by 2030, we must address these data challenges. This involves enhancing data collection, fostering collaboration, and ensuring comprehensive data sharing to support informed decision-making and effective water governance.
Report can be found here:
https://lnkd.in/g29pnsFf
#WaterSecurity #DataForWater #SustainableDevelopment #WaterGovernance #CircularWaterEconomy #ClimateAdaptation #IWRM #WaterEfficiency #GreenWater #BlueWater
Bapon (SHM) Fakhruddin, PhD 