More than half the world’s population lives in urban areas, and for many, water is becoming one of the most immediate ways the climate crisis is felt.
From flooding and sea-level rise to droughts and water scarcity, climate-induced water hazards are reshaping daily life in cities globally. They affect how people move through their cities, whether homes and businesses stay safe, and how local communities function day to day.
However, these impacts are not felt equally. Communities that have historically faced disinvestment and inadequate infrastructure, particularly in the Global South, are often the most exposed and least protected. At the same time, cities themselves are under pressure to respond quickly and directly, as infrastructure is increasingly tested by more frequent and intense extreme weather events.
Why water action is becoming increasingly important
Water is central to how cities function, whether it’s access to transport, the reliability of essential services, public health, or economic stability. When water systems fail, the effects are immediate and far-reaching.
No water, no life, no blue, no green
Dr Silvia Earle
Nonetheless, cities are recognising the potential that water action can have to deliver real, visible improvements to people’s everyday lives.
How C40 cities are responding at the local level
Across the world, cities are already turning water action into tangible improvements for residents.
Fuzhou is ensuring equitable access to clean water
In Fuzhou, the city has established 43 key monitoring areas in its most critical districts, deploying over 200 leak detection devices. These systems can identify water escaping from underground pipes, allowing for faster response times, reducing water loss, and improving the reliability of water services for residents. [IMAGE]
Tshwane is strengthening community preparedness
In Tshwane, strengthening governance has been key. By integrating disaster risk planning – the Disaster Management Plan – across departments and working closely with community networks, the city is improving coordination and preparedness. Community Emergency Response teams are helping residents better respond to hazards like flooding and drought, increasing safety and awareness at the community level.
New York City is
In New York City, 100,000 square feet of porous pavement in Brooklyn has been installed to address flood risk. This allows rainwater to drain into the ground, rather than overwhelm the city’s drainage system. This is helping reduce the volume of water entering sewers, meaning fewer flooded streets and less disruption for residents.
Quito is improving water access during emergencies
In Quito, city leaders are strengthening water supply systems by working closely with public institutions and local communities. Training and direct capacity-building helped ensure that approximately 5,500 people continued to receive water during a major emergency in July 2025.
The role of local leadership
Local leadership is driving practical solutions that make cities safer, more resilient, and better prepared for the future. Strong infrastructure alongside meaningful community engagement means cities are delivering continuous improvements that residents can see and feel in their daily lives.
The C40 ICA Fund supports local governments to ensure city-led climate action is just, fair, inclusive and benefits all residents.
Cities are fighting the climate crisis: protecting people today with warning systems and heat plans, while building long-term resilience with nature to secure water, reduce flooding, and cool urban spaces.
Cities are building resilience against flooding and drought while ensuring water security for all.
