Nature-based Solutions for Water 2018: The United Nations World Water Development Report 2018

This report examines the potential of nature-based solutions to address growing pressures on global water resources in the context of rising demand, water scarcity and climate change. It situates water within sustainable development, highlighting projected increases in agricultural, industrial and domestic demand and the implications for water security. Drawing on scenario analyses, case studies and global assessments, it evaluates how ecosystem-based approaches can improve water availability, quality and risk reduction, including floods and droughts. The report assesses contributions to sustainable development targets, especially those related to water and sanitation, and identifies co-benefits such as enhanced resilience, biodiversity conservation and economic gains associated with integrating environmental sustainability into water resources management.