Water scarcity is a reality for many developing countries including small island developing states (SIDS) in the Caribbean and countries such as Nepal. Climate change threatens water availability further through hotter, drier conditions and less predictable rainfall, worsening the impact of droughts, leading to what is termed absolute scarcity. However, there are also instances of relative scarcity. Water supply, and supporting infrastructure, such as dams, pipelines, pumping stations and roads, are impacted by disasters such as hurricanes, storm surges, floods and landslides. This results in irregular and unreliable water supply, with water not reaching people or communities who need it, when they need it. Relative scarcity can also be a function of low institutional capacity, or financial barriers, to deliver safe water to all, in locations that are often difficult to access even when water resources are available.
As the preconditions differ from region to region, the solutions for decentralized water resource management need to be adapted to the circumstances. The case studies from the Caribbean and Nepal highlight the different approaches to provide safe and reliable water supply to communities and make them more resilient to climate change and disasters.
In the e-discussion from Dec 10 to Dec 13, 2018, you will have an opportunity to share how you are building resilience in your countries through DWRM. The PPCR representatives from the Caribbean region and Nepal will provide valuable insights and answer your questions.
Building Resilience through Decentralized Water Resource Management in the Caribbean- Case Study
Innovative or Ancient? Increasing Water Resilience in Nepal- Case Study