Water systems manage the full cycle of water — from sourcing and treatment to use, recovery, and safe return to nature. Integrated and circular water management is critical in a warming, urbanizing world.
Cities source water from rivers, lakes, aquifers, and reservoirs. Climate change and overuse are straining supply. Technologies like desalination, rainwater harvesting, and smart metering improve resilience.
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) remove pathogens and nutrients before discharge. Advanced systems recover energy (biogas), heat, and even phosphorus from sewage sludge.
Treated greywater and wastewater can be reused in agriculture, industry, or even potable systems. Cities are shifting toward closed-loop reuse, especially in water-scarce regions.
Agriculture is the largest water consumer globally. Drip irrigation, soil moisture sensors, and crop selection help improve water productivity and reduce runoff pollution.
Achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) requires integrated planning, financing, and cross-border cooperation. Access, affordability, and water justice are key priorities.