ICLEI and the World Water Council (WWC) have partnered to launch the CitiesWithWater initiative. It combines a webinar series with an international photography competition to tackle global water challenges, and highlights the critical role of local governments in building water resilience and addressing issues such as water scarcity, excess, and contamination.
The CitiesWithWater webinar series will bring together political leaders and technical experts from cities worldwide to discuss solutions to these pressing water challenges.
Webinar 1 – (26 March 2025) will examine strategies to prevent water scarcity crises, including case studies on droughts, population growth, and competing water demands.
Register here
Webinar 2 – (September 2025) will address challenges associated with excess water, including flooding, rising sea levels, and stormwater management.
Webinar 3 – (September 2025) will emphasize the overlooked yet vital issue of water quality and sanitation.
Webinar 4 – (November/December 2025) will examine how to collaboratively address the interconnected challenges of Too Little, Too Much, and Too Dirty water.
The CitiesWithWater International Photography Competition, which will be launched on World Water Day (22 March 2025), complements the webinar series by showcasing visual stories of local initiatives addressing these very challenges. The competition invites participants to submit photographs that reflect innovative solutions to water issues under three categories: Too Little, Too Much, and Too Dirty.
Young people, especially those aged 18-29, are encouraged to get involved and express their unique perspectives.
The photography competition offers a platform for amplifying the voices of local communities, encouraging a wider conversation about water resilience, and inspiring action on a global scale. The winners will be announced during the final webinar later in 2025, bringing together the insights and stories shared throughout the series.
For information on the CitiesWithWater webinar series contact Laurene Yard and Anton Earle
For any questions about the CitiesWithWater photography competition Luka Dreyer