Investing in Children as we Build a Next and Better Normal: Water Security For All
The opportunity before us is to promote water security; in so doing, we are quite simply safeguarding life. This can only be achieved if people have access to water that is safe and affordable, from renewable sources, and resilient to threats related to water scarcity, extreme weather events and climate shocks. To respond to this opportunity, we ask you to join us in reimagining water, sanitation and hygiene
Like any disruptive force, water insecurity creates opportunities to innovate. Climate-resilient and energy-efficient technologies are rapidly advancing, and becoming cheaper and more user-friendly, particularly renewable energies and use of remote sensing for groundwater exploration. More water-efficient operations can increase the volume of water available, reduce water scarcity and lessen operations and maintenance costs. The private sector has an opportunity to respond, whether through spearheading specific innovations itself or by financing and supporting the creativity that leads to sustainable solutions. This proactivity could counteract impending economic losses and create further social returns. While greater up-front investments may be required to address water scarcity and climate change, they can help to reduce the cost of delivering services in the short to medium term. Addressing water insecurity can also reduce rural to urban migration, thereby preserving business opportunities and markets in rural areas. Increased access to water in communities improves livelihood opportunities and has a direct impact on household incomes, with reduced commodity prices also contributing to disposable incomes, and buying capacity.
Achieving water security for all will not only improve children’s health and well-being, but will also generate employment and income opportunities, and contribute to more stable and peaceful societies. There are enormous business opportunities for the private sector to create, and meet, demand for sustainable products in their current and new markets, as well as to ensure that their businesses are both water- and energy-efficient and have been proofed against future climate risks. Taking action against these risks can bring significant commercial and competitive advantages to the business sector, as well as to communities. Investing in sustainable and green infrastructure is one of the most important and cost-effective ways to increase the resilience of communities. Now is the time to invest.
