Sustainable cities water index

The index, conducted by Arcadis in partnership with the Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR) explores the three aspects that make up robust (resiliency), effective (efficiency) and healthy (quality) waterscapes to develop an indicative ranking of 50 leading cities.

The report finds that most cities need greater investment when it comes to their ability to withstand natural disasters and drinking water shortages, with climate adaptation and resiliency being the most pressing issue for future city leaders. The index shows which cities are best positioned to harness water for their long term success.

The conclusions call for greater investment to improve city resiliency to extreme weather events and unforeseen water shortages. In order to achieve long term viability, city leaders need to pay close attention to each area of water sustainability.