GFA Area - INTEGRATED WATER RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

Challenges

Water resources are under increasing pressure from population growth, climate change, competing sectoral demands and environmental degradation. Uncertain precipitation patterns, reduced snow and glacier storage, and more frequent floods and droughts are intensifying pressure on river basins worldwide. At the same time, responsibilities for water management are often fragmented.

© Nemo1963, istock | Glacier water in Steinsee lake in the Swiss Alps These challenges lead to rising competition among users, greater vulnerability of communities and ecosystems, and reduced economic productivity. Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) provides a framework for balancing environmental sustainability, efficient water use and equitable access. Operationalising IWRM requires strong governance, cross-sectoral coordination and long-term, climate-responsive planning.

GFA concept and services

GFA applies a holistic, evidence-based and climate-responsive approach to IWRM that strengthens governance systems and supports sustainable water use. Our services include:

Governance and institutional strengthening: Support to river basin authorities, policy development, regulatory frameworks, coordination mechanisms and decentralised water governance structures.
Water resources assessments and monitoring: Hydrological and groundwater studies, climate-risk analyses, and digital information systems for decision-making. Glacier melt and seasonal flow analyses are incorporated to support climate-adaptive allocation scenarios.
Participatory basin planning: Inclusive approaches integrating upstream–downstream linkages, environmental flows, socio-economic priorities and climate risks.
Use management: Advisory services on water-saving technologies, allocation mechanisms, tariffs and reuse strategies across key sectors.
Climate resilience and adaptation: Integration of projections and risk assessments into planning, nature-based solutions for flood and drought mitigation, and adaptive management of water infrastructure.
Capacity development: Training for authorities and user groups, communication strategies, and stakeholder engagement tools with a focus on strengthening women’s leadership in water governance.