Water is a core component of sustainable development, inherently linking livelihoods, ecosystems, populations, and infrastructure. Access to water and the management of water resources, services, and hazards significantly determine the state of human and environmental health, food and energy security, socio-economic prosperity, and peace.

UNU water-related research focuses particularly on the needs of developing countries. Through its global network of institutes and programmes, UNU is well-positioned to provide comprehensive policy advice on topics ranging from water governance, freshwater resources, and wastewater management, to sanitation and water-related risk reduction.

UNU & WORLD WATER WEEK

World Water Week 2017 was held in Stockholm, Sweden from 27 August to 1 September. This year’s theme, “Water and Waste — Reduce and Reuse”, provided a significant opportunity for UNU to contribute its water expertise and strengthen engagement across sectors. Through research, commentary, and events, UNU’s work on water is helping to establish policy that will support healthy ecosystems and sound social development for decades to come.