The climate crisis is right here, right now. The impacts of climate change are already being felt around the world as more frequent and extreme floods and droughts impact agriculture, industry, energy, fisheries, ecosystems, the economy, and our own health. While water supplies are becoming increasingly unpredictable, water is also key to building climate resilience and adapting to climate change.
Under the U.S. Global Water Strategy , the United States builds the capacity of vulnerable and high priority countries to adapt to the effects of climate change through the Strategy’s focus on strengthening water security. We equip countries with the tools and training to sustainably manage water resources; expand access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene; improve coordination for management of shared water resources; and strengthen water governance, financing, and institutions. We also engage diplomatically and share our experiences managing water under tough circumstances.
This year, we are sharing our knowledge at Stockholm World Water Week as we work to build resilience with speed and urgency. Every year, Stockholm World Water Week gathers thousands of government representatives, companies, non-governmental organizations, academics, advocates, scientists and young professionals from all over the globe for one crucial issue: water. Participants convene to share their stories, lessons learned, and best practices, and leaders in this effort are recognized, including this year’s Stockholm Water Prize Laureate, Sandra Postel, an American with groundbreaking achievements in conserving water-based ecosystems and raising awareness of the global water crisis.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Assistant Administrator for Water, Radhika Fox, kicked off Stockholm World Water Week with a message for us all: “It’s water’s moment…investing in water infrastructure is one of the best decisions we can make to protect public health, ensure safe water quality, create jobs, and establish more equitable outcomes for everyone.” Connect with us as we virtually participate in World Water Week, and share your thoughts on how we can build a more resilient water future for all.
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About the Author: Ms. Dawson is currently the Director of the Office of Conservation and Water in the Bureau of Oceans and International Environmental and Scientific Affairs (OES) in the U.S. Department of State. She has held numerous positions in the State Department, including Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Environment, member of the Policy Planning Staff in the Office of the Secretary of State, and Senior Advisor to the Under Secretary for Economic Affairs.