Cities, the proverbial engines of economic growth, are grappling with water challenges, such as water security, scarcity, pollution, droughts, and floods. The global urban population is expected to double by 2050, and in the intervening years, the G20 nations will see the most increase. While conventional urban planning has failed to give due importance to urban water systems, several urban water management paradigms have attempted to address the challenges of climate- induced risks and ageing infrastructure, among others. The concept of water- sensitive cities pioneered in Australia may prove helpful in tackling these issues. It aspires to make cities more liveable, sustainable, resilient and productive. It emphasises adopting a holistic approach through close linkages between community behaviour, spatial-ecological planning, innovative technologies and governance. This policy brief explains the concept and its key enablers in the context of the G20 nations. The recommendations focus on spatial planning and governance aspects.
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