Water Security

Access to clean water for human consumption, agriculture and other economic activities has, due to poor management, contamination and now climate change, become an important issue worldwide. A consistent supply of water and good water quality require effective implementation of integrated water management plans and cooperation among stakeholders whether upstream or downstream, rural or urban users.

Asia has the lowest per capita availability of freshwater in the world today. The region’s growing population is expected to increase the demand on a natural resource that is already quickly depleting. Agricultural crops require a consistent and reliable supply of clean water, but inefficient and polluting agricultural practices have led to water scarcity in many parts of Asia.

As “models” of sustainability, our members are best seen as leading cost-effective initiatives where experimentation with innovative land management policies and practices can take place over the long term to address issues related to inefficient land and water use, water scarcity and pollution across Asia.

We work with local communities and governments to build capacity for developing strategies for the efficient and sustainable management of watersheds in order to ensure access to clean water and a reliable water supply. We test methods for implementing programs to protect water quality and supply, and create economic opportunities for rural communities. This work links to our goals on forest cover, poverty alleviation and food security.

Find out more on what is happening in the Model Forests of Asia