Abstract:
Water is the messenger of climate change we have all been ignoring. How do you see climate change happening? It’s the floods, droughts, hail, too much water, too little water, water when you don’t need it, and water when you don’t want it. The question then becomes: are we measuring the right metrics to ensure people understand climate change better?

Summary of Conversations

The discussion centered on the critical role of water in the climate narrative, often overshadowed by carbon emissions. Water, like carbon, is deeply connected to ecosystems, economies, and social infrastructure, serving as a localized indicator of climate change impacts. Framing climate conversations around water can resonate even with climate change skeptics, highlighting its immediate and visible effects such as scarcity, pollution, and extreme weather events like floods and droughts. Corporate disclosure of water metrics is increasingly important, offering stakeholders insights into a company’s sustainability commitment and climate risk exposure, making water-related impacts more understandable to the public than carbon footprints.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of Challenges

• Water is an underestimated yet critical element in climate discussions, often overshadowed by carbon emissions.
• Unlike carbon emissions, water issues manifest quickly and directly impact local communities and ecosystems.
• Extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts, serve as visible indicators of climate change through water.
• The increasing frequency and intensity of forest fires disrupt traditional preparation and resource mobilization efforts.
• Water-related conflicts are predicted to rise, potentially leading to significant crises and even global conflicts.
• General public often misunderstands carbon metrics, while water-related impacts are more easily understood and relatable.
• Integrating water-centric strategies into climate action plans is essential for effective adaptation and mitigation measures.

Recommendations/Next Steps

• Incorporate water-related education into all jobs, emphasizing its role in climate adaptation and mitigation.
• Communicate scientific findings about water’s role in climate change to policymakers in an accessible and compelling manner.
• Engage asset managers and investors to raise awareness about water-related risks and opportunities, encouraging sustainable investments.
• Focus on educating stakeholders to foster open conversations and receptiveness to water-centric policies.
• Connect with policymakers to understand their information needs and provide tailored, packaged information.
• Shift from merely presenting scientific facts to crafting compelling stories that resonate with policymakers.
• Prioritize interventions that focus on water, such as wetland restoration, in adaptation and mitigation strategies.