Water security and wetlands: Achieving effective water resources management and closing the investment gap

This event at the World Water Forum will shine a spotlight on the crucial role of freshwater ecosystems—wetlands, lakes, rivers, and ground water—for water security amidst increasing demands. Despite the importance of freshwater ecosystems, discussions and initiatives for water security often omit the conservation of freshwater ecosystems and associated watersheds. Additionally, there is a significant gap in funding and investment allocated for water security.  

The discussion will highlight several relevant case studies that illustrate water resource management practices from the public and private sectors, including for example, Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) and Nature Based Solutions. We will discuss how these management practices positively impact not only water security, but broader landscape and ecosystem resilience. Finally, we will discuss how various sectors can collaborate to unlock the investment needed for implementing and scaling sustainable management of freshwater resources.