Securing Freshwater for All

Ample, clean water is vital for human health, industry, agriculture and energy production. Yet the world’s freshwater systems face formidable threats due to unsustainable management, ecosystem degradation and climate change.

As many as 4 billion people are already exposed to water stress conditions for at least one month a year. The natural ecosystems that provide clean water and alleviate floods and other risks — such as forests, mangroves and wetlands — are degrading and disappearing at alarming rates. Demand for water is projected to increase by up to 30% by 2050, while water-related conflicts and political instability are on the rise. And climate change is worsening the problem, intensifying floods and droughts, shifting precipitation patterns and fueling sea level rise.

WRI works to transform the way the world produces food, uses energy and designs its cities to build a water-secure future. We collaborate with governments, communities and companies to tackle threats facing the world’s freshwater system — such as inadequate water management, ecosystem degradation and climate change — to ensure ample clean water for all.

We produce innovative data and analysis tools to help decision-makers understand current and future water risks. We identify ways for policymakers to build water resilience, prevent water-related conflicts and invest in nature-based solutions like forest and watershed restoration. We guide companies on water stewardship initiatives and science-based target setting, which can reduce financial risks and improve collective water security. And we work with cities to expand water access and address the root problems of water insecurity to create more resilient communities.