ÂÒÂ×Ðã

Climate Strategies report titled ‘Transition Indicators to broaden perspectives beyond adaptation and mitigation’ explores how transition indicators can drive climate action by acting as tangible and accessible metrics to facilitate policy dialogues for systemic change.ÌýThese indicators articulate desired outcomes, facilitate dialogue, guide policy implementation, and enhance investment frameworks.

In this pivotal report published on 3^rd June 2024 by Climate Strategies, Dr Bipashyee Ghosh, Lecturer in Engineering, Innovation and Public Policy at ÂÒÂ×Ðã’s Department of Science, Technology, Engineering and Public Policy (STEaPP), explores key transition pathways for water security in India. Water, a vital resource essential for sustaining livelihoods and ensuring human well-being, remains a critical system to be transformed, in order to ensure sustainable development in India. Against the backdrop of evolving climate patterns and increasing demands for water, the need for innovative solutions has never been more urgent.

Ghosh identified two interconnected pathways for transitions to sustainable water system in India. The first pathway focuses on ensuring round-the-clock access to safe drinking water for all citizens, regardless of socioeconomic status or geographical location. Through a series of indicators, including measures of affordability, safety, and adequacy, this pathway aims to guarantee universal access to clean water by 2030.

In parallel, the second pathway emphasises water savings and efficient water usage in households and agricultural settings. By harnessing technological innovations and behavioural changes, such as the adoption of water-efficient irrigation techniques and the promotion of sustainable household practices, this pathway seeks to enhance water use efficiency and resilience to climate variability.

Crucially, these transition indicators are not only designed to measure progress but also to facilitate effective governance and stakeholder engagement. The pathways and indicators are ways to engage communities in decision-making, and empowering them to take ownership of technologies and innovations, and drive change in a more democratic manner.

Looking ahead, Ghosh suggests international cooperation will play a pivotal role in scaling up these initiatives and fostering knowledge exchange between nations facing similar water challenges. By leveraging engineering expertise, infrastructural investments, and financial support, collaborative efforts in the national and regional contexts can accelerate progress towards a water-secure, net-zero future for India and beyond.

As the global community grapples with the complex interplay between water security, climate change, and sustainable development, ÂÒÂ×Ðã remains at the forefront of pioneering research and innovation, driving positive change for generations to come.

You can explore the full report

For further information on this research and for feedback and collaborations, please contact Bipashyee Ghosh at bipashyee.ghosh@ucl.ac.uk

Ìý