What is happening to Water?
Water constantly moves through the water cycle processes. Global warming significantly impacts this cycle, changing quantity, timing, distribution, and quality.
Updated 13 August 2023
People in flood-prone areas of Sylhet, Bangladesh collect drinking water from tube wells.Photo by: HM Shahidul Islam/Shutterstock.com
Firstly, the South Asia Region accounts for almost 47% of the annual freshwater withdrawal.
Secondly, by 2030, South Asia’s water demand will double, driven by climate risks and unsustainable usage – impacting lives, livelihoods, and migration.
Lastly, in the high carbon emission scenario, global temperatures are projected to rise by 3°C by mid-century. This will bring amplify monsoons, alter river flows, and increase droughts, impacting water demand and supply.
Climate Change Analysis on Water Resources Management in South Asia
By 2050, water-related losses in sectors like agriculture, health, income, and infrastructure will cause South Asia’s GDP growth to decline by 6%.
The Global Water Partnership states that integrated water resource management (IWRM) is a process that fosters coordinated development and management of water, land, and related resources. This aims to maximize economic and social welfare while ensuring ecosystem sustainability.
The World Bank states that increased temperature and variable rainfall will reduce water and crop productivity, affecting food prices, nutrition, and livelihoods. Furthermore, saltwater intrusion from sea-level rise in low-lying agricultural plains is further expected to exacerbate these issues.
Furthermore, South Asian countries pledge to execute integrated water resource management strategies via their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
Additionally, numerous initiatives have embraced implementing IWRM strategies to safeguard water systems and mitigate climate effects, ensuring water security.
Promoting Nature-based Solutions to Increase Climate Resilience in South Asia’s Water Sector
November 2022-October 2023
Implemented by IUCN Asia in collaboration with the Asian Disaster Preparedness Center (ADPC) and the Indian Environment Law Organization (IELO), Delhi, the project “Promoting Nature-based Solutions to Increase Climate Resilience in South Asia’s Water Sector” focuses on enhancing climate resilience.
