The worsening water crisis has become a global concern nowadays. Collaboration in research and innovation is crucial to create tangible solutions for various water-related challenges.
Mego Pinandito, Deputy Chairman for Development Policy at the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) of Indonesia, expressed readiness to support the 10th World Water Forum scheduled to take place in Bali from May 18th to 25th, 2024.
"We recognize the pivotal role of research and innovation in seeking solutions to address the water crisis," said Mego Pinandito during a virtual press conference titled "Research and Innovation as Solutions to the Water Crisis" held on March 13, 2023.
The Impacts of Climate Change
Mego outlined that climate change continues to show significant impacts in Indonesia. This is evident in the rise of air temperature by 0.3 degrees Celsius with a yearly decrease in rainfall by 2–3 percent.
He further noted that the rainy season is becoming shorter, while the dry season gradually extends. These changes undoubtedly affect hydrological processes and water resources, temperature rise, water levels, and the occurrence of extreme weather.
The approach to tackling the water crisis involves cooperation, synergy, and collaboration among various relevant institutions. According to Mego, this issue cannot be overlooked as climate change poses significant effects on human security.
Research Collaboration and Innovation
Numerous studies reveal the impacts of climate change on water resource availability. As the host country of the 10th World Water Forum, Indonesia needs to echo the collective actions to slow the rate of climate change.
Indonesia can promote national actions already undertaken and use them as examples at the 10th World Water Forum. In this regard, a synergistic approach can be implemented through regional development, sectoral development, and green businesses.
Synergistic actions and collaborations will enhance the management of water resource infrastructure to support water provision and food security. Additionally, hydrological disaster control management will become more measurable.
The Importance of Community Participation
Equally important in addressing the water crisis is fostering awareness and involvement of communities in water conservation, ensuring availability, and access to data and information regarding climate change impacts.
Mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change on water resources are equally crucial. This step will help inventory raw water intake locations, irrigation areas affected by rising sea levels, and efforts to address them.
Mego hopes that Indonesia could be a representation of community-based water resource management and disaster risk management in the 10th World Water Forum. Indonesia can showcase the success of water management systems with local wisdom.
Furthermore, BRIN has developed collaboration and research cooperation schemes between developed and developing countries participating in the 10th World Water Forum, particularly focusing on addressing climate change concerning water resource management.