Water security in a changing climate

Water is one of the most vital resources on this planet, yet it is under immense threat from climate change and pollution. Ensuring water security is one of the grand challenges of the 21st century. Here we explore the principles and practical approaches to water and river management, with a focus on securing sustainable and equitable water futures. We study how engineers and scientists calculate ‘how much’ water is available and ‘how clean’ that water is for our various water uses. This unit involves a mixture of computer-based modelling and laboratory work. We also discuss the human dimension of water management, including governance, equity, and the role of stakeholders in decision-making. By the end of the unit, students will be equipped to critically evaluate and design strategies for managing water resources in a changing climate, balancing technical, environmental, and societal considerations.