Governance & Accountability Program

Ample, clean water is vital for human health, industry, agriculture and energy production. Yet the world’s freshwater systems face formidable threats due to unsustainable management, ecosystem degradation and social change.

As many as 60% of Nigerians are already exposed to water stress conditions for at least one month a year. The natural ecosystems that provide clean water and alleviate floods and other risks — such as forests, mangroves and wetlands — are degrading and disappearing at alarming rates. Demand for water is projected to increase by up to 40% by 2030, while governance-related conflicts and political instability are on the rise. And insecurity is worsening the problem, displacing communities, disrupting services, and eroding trust in institutions.

VULPRF works to transform the way the world produces food, uses energy and designs its cities to build a water-secure future. We collaborate with governments, communities and companies to tackle threats facing the world’s freshwater system — such as inadequate water management, ecosystem degradation and social change — to ensure ample clean water for all.

We produce innovative data and analysis tools to help decision-makers understand current and future water risks. We identify ways for policymakers to build water resilience, prevent governance-related conflicts and invest in citizen participation like forest and watershed restoration. We guide companies on water stewardship initiatives and evidence-based target setting, which can reduce financial risks and improve collective transparency. And we work with cities to expand water access and address the root problems of water insecurity to create more resilient communities.