The WISE Vision

Water Innovation for Sustainable Economy

The WISE vision is one core programme/component of INWRDAM. It is important to emphasize, that the WISE vision is an on-going initiative and in contrast to a typical project not restricted or defined by project boundaries. Hence, the WISE vision is far beyond a normal, commonly known project. The WISE vision focuses on water innovations and water related solutions to establish circular and more sustainable economies across the Globe. At first sight this description might sound a little bit too general, but considering the full geographical size and significance represented by the numerous INWRDAM-network partners, it is as fitting as it must be. The scope of the WISE-vision reaches out to circular economy and alternative business models, as well as sustainable rural development and urban infrastructure approaches. The WISE vision aims at creating simple water innovative solutions, which can be adopted in agriculture, industry or services. The general idea behind developing water innovative solutions for sustainable economies is to improve water quality and water quantity for various schemes. In other words, the WISE vision addresses the problem of water scarcity and water pollution by saving water, for instance by improving water use efficiency at on-farm scale and reusing and recycling of water resources. Since untreated and released waste water resources are a growing threat in many countries, the WISE-vision sets a special focus on decentralized and green waste water solutions, like constructed wetlands. Another important core element of the WISE vision is to see and recognize current water or environment related problems as opportunities and drivers for change. Thus, waste water can always be identified as an imminent threat, problem or even a catastrophe. But in fact, wastewater is the fastest growing water resource of the world, carrying huge amounts of valuable nutrients, which if recycled and used properly can be used as fertilizer, and seen more as a valuable and untapped resource.

WISE vision involves activities that pave the way for achieving the SDG’s such as:

• Reduction of poverty and enhancing of economic growth through helping farmers enhancing agricultural productivity.
• Sustain clean water and sanitation through reuse of treated wastewater via NBS (Natural Based Solutions).
• Responsible and wise use of water resources in arid an semi arid water basins.
• Coping with climate change impact and enhancing resilience of environment and local communities with focus on vulnerable ones.
• Strengthening dialogue among water stake holders at national, regional and international levels