Paving the way for equitable water

The interplay between meeting the community’s immediate water needs, economic progression and climate adaptation presents added intricacies and unavoidable trade-offs. Increased demand for resilient infrastructure and sophisticated water systems underlines the layered nature of this predicament. Aquanomics, a study into the socio-economic impacts of water risk and resilience published by GHD, predicts that water-related calamities could lead to a staggering USD5.6 trillion dent in global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from 2022 to 2050, further emphasising the crucial need for novel approaches in investment and implementation.

Aquanomics also found that water risk is spread unevenly across the globe, with losses varying by country and region, depending on a combination of factors including the state of an area’s existing infrastructure, local geographic and climate features, dominant industries, local prevention systems and existing government policies towards mitigation.

Notably, Australia, the Philippines and the US are projected to experience an average economic decline of between 0.5 per cent and 0.7 per cent in annual GDP in the years up to 2050. The impact of these statistics on future generations and communities spotlights the need for prudent and visionary decision-making today, while laying the foundation for long-term sustainability for tomorrow.

As we seek out more sustainable practices, continuing to shift perceptions of water being viewed as a low-cost resource for human use, to a vital element in Earth's ecological cycles becomes imperative. The growing climate crisis underscores the urgency for creative and feasible technologies to efficiently manage water resources. Targeted investment and innovation can reduce threats and build resilience to climate events. Similarly, public education initiatives are key to promoting a cultural shift toward conserving water and adopting advanced tactics like water treatment and reuse. 

Seeing water as a connecting force among different sectors and communities sets the stage for developing a circular economy, fairer water allocation and a positive legacy whereby clean water is accessible to all. By considering intergenerational fairness and making strategic, inclusive choices, we protect both current and future generations.

CROSSROADS by GHD, a wide-ranging research study exploring the infrastructure priorities of more than 10,000 people across 10 countries, revealed a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, equitable water access and circular economy solutions among citizens. For example, 59 per cent of survey respondents agreed that they would be willing to pay more for their household water use in order for everyone in their community to have access to clean water.

Similarly, across multiple markets, it was found that Generation Z is most open to drinking treated/recycled water, with older generations less inclined to do so. We can’t ignore the differences in generational outlooks - considering all perspectives is integral for delivering services both now and planning ahead for our future generations. Providing equitable access to water that’s adequate in quantity and quality, should be a unifying goal for all communities globally, especially for those who suffer a disadvantage or face social exclusion.

A clear example of the benefits of an inclusive approach to securing water supplies is demonstrated in Rarotonga, the capital of the Cook Islands. The Rarotonga Water Management Project has brought clean and treated water to the island for the first time, laying the groundwork for future water infrastructure improvements across all of Rarotonga. Beyond providing clean water to locals and visitors, the project has empowered the local community by enhancing their technical skills and setting a positive precedent for other large-scale projects. Te Mato Vai (which translates to “source of water”) promotes responsible water use and sets an inspiring example for future communities to follow.  

The scale of global water disparity highlights the urgent need for innovative and inclusive solutions. Addressing economic impacts of water-related disasters and rethinking our relationship with water is key for sustainable development. By adopting a more inclusive approach that incorporates intergenerational perspectives, we can create more sustainable and accessible water supplies for current and future communities. Through implementing adaptive approaches, a future where everyone has stable access to safe, clean water can be forged, paving the path for a more equitable and sustainable world.