Addressing global water challenges with innovation
Discover how the ASU Water Institute tackles the world’s most pressing water issues at the intersection of climate, ecosystems and urbanization. Learn about our mission to create equitable, actionable solutions through cutting-edge research, collaboration and visionary strategies for a sustainable future.
The importance of water
Water is essential for life—human health, ecosystem functioning, industry and economic development on Earth and beyond. The increasing global population, coupled with rising resource consumption and climate impacts, are leading to critical changes in water quality and availability worldwide.
The global challenge
Exposure to floods, droughts, toxins and pathogens is escalating. This affects people and places, as well as global supply chains for food, minerals and manufactured goods. Biodiversity loss, wildfires, human migration and displacement, and uninsurability from natural hazards are direct outcomes of the dynamic relationship between water, climate and population challenges.
Our mission
At the ASU Water Institute, our mission is to address the complex water challenges of our rapidly changing world, where water and climate intersect with food, energy, ecosystems and urbanization.
Our vision
We can envision planetary futures where water security is central to vitality across all people, places and sectors of society. Our work is rooted in a commitment to equity and harmony while recognizing the interdependence of all life systems. We have the capacity to create actionable ideas and implement strategies to shape our destiny. Through the development, testing and refinement of bold ideas and innovative designs, we can provide hope to future generations.
The way forward
These are the questions guiding us forward in our work.
What are the dreams and expectations people have for a stable future, and what is the roadmap to achieve them?
How can we help define societal aspirations for assessing, predicting and managing water quality, quantity, access and safety in the 21st century?
What are the technological innovations, financing mechanisms, policy instruments and field implementation strategies we need to develop, test and scale to build a better future?
Our approach
The Water Institute at Arizona State University is a global leader in water research and action, dedicated to forecasting and tackling water challenges at all scales, from local communities to national systems. Leveraging the extensive academic resources at ASU and the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory®, we unite top thinkers and educators to explore the future of water and collaboratively address complex water issues through innovative education-, research- and communication-driven projects.
We are convening a global network of experts and practitioners to drive sustained innovation in water and climate technology and policy. By advancing these areas together, we aim to develop resilient solutions for emerging and urgent water and climate challenges.
Learn about our research areas
The ASU Water Institute works across all aspects of water, from the physical sciences level to the social and economic factors that make this such an essential topic. Take a look at our areas of expertise, and get to know some of the researchers working to address our greatest water challenges.