The International Water Management Institute, concerned at the potential impacts climate change is likely to have on access to and availability of water worldwide, have produced this paper exploring the range of strategies that will be necessary to future-proof water, agriculture, and food security in an era of climate uncertainty. The scale of the problem is laid out in the introduction. It is predicted that by 2050, 9.6 billion people will require water and food without significant expansion of cultivated land, at a time when rising average temperatures, increased extreme temperatures, and changes in precipitation are likely to increase global water stress.
There follows four chapters with multiple boxes and case studies, each concerning different aspects of the issue:
Transform water governance - A critical need is integrated water resources management nationally, locally, and basin-wide (transboundary). Wise planning should consist of wise investment that accounts for climate change, averting ‘tipping points’, and harnessing the knowledge of women, marginalised groups, and grassroots organisations.
Revisit water storage - A key adaptation strategy; many water storage options that rely on rainfall could be at threat from climate change. Various options are discussed, with an example highlighted in Sri Lanka where ancient water storage tanks from early Sri Lankan kingdoms are being restored and supplemented with micro-irrigation technologies and modern water management techniques.
Produce more food per unit of water - The likely climate change effects and adaptation options for a number of basin regions are presented, prior to sections on managing variability and demand. The benefits of supplemental irrigation water at critical moments are outlined, and the need for including and empowering women is discussed.
Assess water resources - Climate models and analytical tools can help in assessing water resources and their associated risks concerning climate change, a necessary first step.
The paper concludes with a section summarising the need to build resilience. Short-term goals will see adaptation involving uptake of improved agricultural and water management technologies, while long-term will require diversification of livelihoods. The authors suggest that taking a sustainable development approach to adaptation is the best strategy, since in addressing vulnerability it builds resilience to unforeseen circumstances.