As the second in a new series of annually released theme-oriented reports, the 2015 edition of the United Nations World Water Development Report (WWDR) clearly shows how water is critical to sustainable development. Indeed, water is the essential primary natural resource upon which nearly all social and economic activities and ecosystem functions depend. Sustainable development requires that we properly manage our freshwater resources and equitably share its benefits.

The linkages between water and sustainable development are numerous, complex and often subtle. In addition to describing the relationship between water and its social, economic and environmental dimensions, this WWDR also examines water’s
role in addressing several of the most pressing developmental challenges of our time, from food and energy security to urbanization and climate change.

The Report is further enriched by regional perspectives, and provides decision-makers and practitioners with specific examples of measures, actions and approaches to addressing these interconnected challenges through water.

Like its predecessors, the WWDR 2015 is primarily targeted at national-level decision-makers and water resources managers. However, it is hoped the Report will also be well received by academics and the broader developmental community as well by those who care about the common future of our planet