Welcome to Our Future Water’s newsletter on “Adapting to a Future of Extremes: Green, Grey, and Hybrid Solutions for Urban Water Management,” which focuses on the opportunities in urban water management in the face of climate change.
As cities worldwide experience the increasing effects of climate change, including rising sea levels, climbing temperatures, and extreme weather events, innovative approaches to urban water management are needed more than ever. The urgency to find sustainable solutions is further amplified by the rapid urbanization and increasing population densities in many regions. By leveraging the latest advancements in technology, engineering, and ecological understanding, we can develop strategies that are both environmentally responsible and economically viable.
In this newsletter, we explore the critical need for rethinking urban water management, the role of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in creating resilient and attractive cities, and how to adapt to climate change and future water scarcity.
Insights
Rethinking Urban Water Management in a Changing Climate
Climate change is causing an increase in extreme weather events, such as flooding, droughts, and heat waves, directly impacting the urban environment. Coupled with rapid urbanization, this creates many challenges for urban water management. Innovative approaches are needed to optimize water use and prevent damage to infrastructure and ecosystems. This includes using decentralized and flexible systems that can adapt to changing conditions and ensure the efficient use of water resources. Discover how Santa Monica transforms stormwater into a valuable asset through green infrastructure.
Nature-Based Solutions for Resilient Urban Environments
NBS, such as green roofs, rain gardens, and permeable pavements, offer a range of benefits that can help cities become more resilient to climate change. These solutions provide natural ways to manage stormwater, reduce the urban heat island effect, and enhance local biodiversity. NBS can also improve air and water quality, promote mental well-being, and increase the overall aesthetics of urban areas. By incorporating NBS into urban planning and design, cities can create more sustainable and adaptable environments that cater to the needs of their residents and ecosystems. Explore how a stadium in Hamburg innovatively stores rainwater underground.
Adapting to Climate Change and Future Water Scarcity
As the demand for water resources grows, cities must find ways to adapt to the potential scarcity of this vital resource. Strategies for coping with water scarcity include improving water-use efficiency, implementing water reuse and recycling systems, and developing alternative water sources, such as desalination and stormwater harvesting. By investing in these solutions, cities can improve their water security and reduce their vulnerability to climate change impacts. Collaboration between municipalities, utilities, and other stakeholders is essential to develop integrated and innovative approaches that address water scarcity while promoting urban development and sustainability. Delve into how Perth has developed a climate-independent water source.
Online Event
Join Our Future Water and State of Green for the online event “Adapting to a future of extremes: Green, grey, and hybrid solutions” to connect with leading climate adaptation and resiliency experts, as well as a panel of distinguished guests. Let’s work together to create a more sustainable and resilient future for our cities.
Call for Chapters: Palgrave Encyclopedia of Sustainable Resources and Ecosystem Resilience
The Palgrave Encyclopedia of Sustainable Resources and Ecosystem Resilience, published with Springer Nature, provides practitioners and researchers with a tertiary body of knowledge on how improving resource efficiency and ensuring ecosystem resilience can achieve green growth, which values ecosystems, promotes inter-generational development policies, and protects human life and livelihoods from environmental risks and ecological scarcities. Submissions are open for chapter contributions by academics and practitioners. DM Robert C. Brears (Editor in Chief) for more information.
Latest Mark and Focus
Nature-based solutions (NBS) are one such solution that can harness the power of natural processes and ecosystems to address complex environmental issues. This magazine delves into the potential of NBS in different industries and environments, including the restoration of oceans, the development of renewable energy landscapes, the role of NBS in natural flood management, and the transformative impact of NBS in agriculture. Available at Issuu or Apple Books, or download it here.
Communities
In addition to subscribing to the newsletter, many professionals have joined Our Future Water’s various communities.
- Click here to join the Our Future Water Network. Be part of the community.
- Join the conversation on the following LinkedIn groups:
Urban Water Security, Our Future Water, Circular Water Economy, Blue-Green Infrastructure, Nature-Based Solutions, Climate Resilient Water Resources Management
Books
Financing Water Security and Green Growth
Financing Water Security and Green Growth offers a comprehensive overview of the innovative financial instruments and approaches available to implement water security and green growth initiatives at various scales and in different contexts.
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