What is a water sensitive city?
Why a water sensitive city?
A water sensitive city is a place that:
- serves as a potential water supply catchment, providing a range of different water sources at a range of different scales, and for a range of different uses;
- provides ecosystem services and a healthy natural environment, thereby offering a range of social, ecological, and economic benefits; and
- consist of water sensitive communities where citizens have the knowledge and desire to make wise choices about water, are actively engaged in decision-making, and demonstrate positive behaviours such as conserving water at home and not tipping chemicals down the drain.
Watch this short video explainer below to learn more about a water sensitive city
What makes a city water sensitive?
A water sensitive city is:
- productive – efficient and diverse water sources provide the water security essential for economic prosperity
- sustainable – water systems enhance and protect the health of waterways and wetlands, the river basins that surround them, and the coast and bays
- resilient – water systems mitigate flood risk and damage
- liveable – public spaces collect, clean, and recycle water.
Talk to Ben (Ben.Furmage@monash.edu) or Jamie (Jamie.Ewert@monash.edu) about how we can help you achieve a secure and sustainable water future.
We’re looking for partners
We’re excited by the possibilities Water Sensitive Cities Australia presents, and we welcome partners.
If you’re interesting in partnering with us, please complete a declaration form.
If you have any questions, talk to our Mainstreaming Leader Jamie Ewert (jamie.ewert@monash.edu).
DOWNLOAD THE PROSPECTUS
PROJECTS
Nature-based solutions (Nbs) for climate resilient communities, environments and economies in the Greater Mekong region.
Cities in the Mekong region are growing rapidly. By 2030, more than 40% of the region’s population is expected to live in urban areas.
How Mekong region cities manage their growth will determine the future health, wealth and wellbeing of communities and environments in the region. At the same time, climate change is increasing the pressures they face.
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Towards more robust and resilient
integrated water management
investments
Our rapidly growing cities create economic opportunities but also strain our environments, infrastructure and investment reserves. Increasingly, communities also expect healthy, liveable urban environments.
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Growing NatureLinks:
Kings Park to Bold Park
NatureLinks are nature-friendly pathways joining 2 (or more) natural areas. They provide the least risk to species moving across the urban landscape.
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