With climate change posing unprecedented global challenges, the Water as Leverage framework provides an excellent way for transformative, inclusive urban water projects. The framework benefits cities in developing sustainable solutions and unlocking otherwise underutilized private-sector financing. The framework applies the eight principles—from fostering inclusivity and scalability to integrating systemic perspectives—and #WaL initiatives could support scaling up water security and innovation where water connects people, economies, and ecosystems.
WaL can support and catalyse a global movement in urban water resilience for cities, private investors, and communities alike. Water-related projects often face challenges attracting private sector investors because of perceived risks, high upfront costs, and limited immediate revenue returns. However, the WaL approach offers a compelling framework to mitigate these barriers:
Clear Revenue Opportunities: Projects like Demak’s mangrove restoration created direct economic benefits—improved aquaculture incomes, ecotourism activities, and carbon trading credit mechanisms—while reducing coastal erosion. By monetizing ecosystem services, these initiatives become attractive to investors.
Blended Finance Mechanisms: The WaL framework encourages diverse funding approaches, including grants, public-private partnerships, and innovative tools like green bonds. These mechanisms de-risk projects and make them more appealing to private investors seeking fiscal returns and reputational gains from investing in sustainability.
Long-Term Sustainability: Strong emphasis on adaptive operations and maintenance ensures projects remain functional and practical. For example, enhanced flood defences implemented through Rebuild by Design in Lower Manhattan attracted significant private funding due to their meticulous feasibility studies and maintenance protocols.
Proof of Concept: Demonstration pilots, such as the Water Balance Pilot in Chennai, prove scalable and replicable solutions that private investors can confidently support.
Guideline is here https://lnkd.in/gg2Ej5V9
#WaterAsLeverage #UrbanResilience #PrivateInvestment #ClimateAdaptation #BlendedFinance #WaterSecurity #EcosystemServices #SustainableCities #WaLInitiatives #ClimateAction
Bapon (SHM) Fakhruddin, PhD 