Valuing water for a smart and sustainable city: Lessons from Kolkata

Описание: The issue of valuing water is contentious because of its physical, political and economic dimensions. Yet, it is an important debate, as valuation is key in estimating the benefits and costs of different management options. An effective valuation supports better informed decision-making in the allocation and use of the resource, as well as in the implementation of SDG6, i.e. to “ensure availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all.” For cities to qualify as water-smart and sustainable, utilities must identify the values of different benefits, explore potential trade-offs between diverse values, and include them in the decision-making processes to address efficiency, equity and sustainability concerns. This brief analyses the management of water in Kolkata and argues that, so far, the desired outcomes are yet to be met. Read: https://goo.gl/ffhj7L