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FAO: National Water Roadmaps to tackle scarcity and meet SDGs

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), approximately 2.3 billion people are currently living in water-stressed countries, with 10 per cent of the global population living in countries facing high or critical water stress. 

UNDP/Costa Rica

Agriculture is responsible for 72 per cent of freshwater withdrawals globally, with consumption growing to meet the increasing demand for food, fibre and feed. Therefore, sustainable and equitable use of water is the key to addressing these challenges.

The FAO has highlighted the potential of National Water Roadmaps, which are country-owned tools designed to support integrated water resources management into national sustainable development strategies, policies, and cross-sectoral investment plans. These Roadmaps can help end poverty and hunger, as well as support the Sustainable Development Goals through participatory country-led dialogues and concrete actions.

The FAO is assisting its members in linking the Roadmaps with existing plans and strategies, as well as accessing financial resources for their development and implementation. The organization also announced a $1.5 million commitment from China to help countries develop their Roadmaps through the FAO-China South-South Cooperation Trust Fund.

These initiatives were discussed at the National Water Roadmaps towards the 2030 Agenda event at the UN 2023 Water Conference, highlighting the importance of sustainable water management in achieving global development goals.

  • Read more about National Water Roadmaps here.

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