Seven years after the release of its first Water Vision for a Water-Smart Society, Water Europe has published a new updated version that is sharper, more policy-oriented and builds on the latest scientific and technological developments. The vision is to create a Water-Smart Society where the value of water is recognised and realised to ensure water security, sustainability, and resilience.
What is a Water-Smart Society? A society in which:
- the value of water is recognised and realised to ensure water security, sustainability, and resilience
- all available water sources are managed so that water scarcity and pollution are avoided
- water and resource loops are largely closed to foster a circular economy and optimal resource efficiency
- the water system is resilient against the impact of climate and demographic change
- all relevant stakeholders are engaged in guaranteeing sustainable water governance
- Water Security: Ensure sustainable access to affordable water that preserves health, fosters socio-economic development, and protects against water-related disasters.
- Water Sustainability: Ensure sustainable water infrastructure, management and use that meets current needs without compromising the future.
- Water Resilience: Attain long-term water system resilience to prevent consequences like droughts and floods.