Approaching Fair Water Distribution Through Systemic Approaches 

Water is one of the most notable models of circularity with its natural cycle of evaporation, transpiration, condensation, and precipitation. Through this circular model, the volume of global water stays constant and as global populations rise, this creates a focus on one key element: distribution. 

Fair water distribution set outs to ensure everyone globally has access to liveable amount of clean and sanitised water to allow a healthy lifestyle. This distribution faces barriers which include geographic disparities as some regions have abundant freshwater, while others face chronic shortages and sources are continually affected by on-going climate change. 

Source: Visual Capitalist  

Infrastructure is also a key challenge in fair distribution with many developing regions having limited investment in water delivery, storage and cleansing systems. Demand is also unfairly weighted with developed regions using substantially more water for complex manufacturing, greater urbanisation and excessive personal practices. 

When it comes to water distribution solutions, a systematic approach is needed to ensure they are suitable, scalable and fair. Systems thinking is the ability to identify the ‘constructs’ of underlying complex problems such as water shortages as well as understand the broader context and appreciate interactions among levels like local use as well as from a whole global system’s perspective. 

Source: NatureScot 

An example of systematic solution is the development of the SuDs framework. Sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) offer a more natural approach to managing drainage systems in and around properties and developments than traditional drainage systems. It’s a globally applicable system that can be easily tailored to local areas with considerations for numerous water stakeholders and the natural environment. It demonstrates the systematic approach through mimicking the natural cycle of water allowing it to be retained where it lands opening water accessibility to countless global citizens. 

This work is further demonstrated through organisations such as Waterwise who’s work spans policy, regulation, research, and campaigns, all aimed at driving behaviour change and raising awareness of the importance of water efficiency. They engage with communities, businesses and governments to understand the value of water and how to use frameworks such as SuDs. 

Source: Waterwise 

As global water access and distribution become an increasingly critical topic, organisations need to apply systems thinking and principals in designing their solutions to ensure their effectiveness and help tackle the global water crisis piece by piece. 

Author: Philip Black