Water in Asia and the Pacific

Jump to:
What ADB Is Doing
What ADB Has Done
What's New

Two billion people in Asia and the Pacific lack adequate water and sanitation. Equitable water access is critical to ADB's support for economic growth and social well-being.

Learn more
Asia is the most disaster-affected region in the world. Addressing risk from climate change, water-related disasters, health emergencies, and economic shocks is central to ADB's water program.

Learn more
Innovative financing involving the private sector is essential to meet Asia and the Pacific's substantive water, sanitation, infrastructure and service needs.

Learn more
Proportion of population using safely
managed drinking water, 2020

Despite adequate water services, there are two billion people that lack safe drinking water in Asia and the Pacific.
Proportion of population using safely
managed sanitation, 2020

Asia and the Pacific is still in need of safe water for proper sanitation services.
Water Sector Financing by ADB,
2011-2021

Innovative financing and partnerships are needed to provide water, infrastructure and services in the region.

ADB is working to improve water security and resilience in the region by supporting inclusive, resilient, sustainable, and well-governed services delivery and resource management. ADB supports its developing member countries in achieving water-related Sustainable Development Goals, including resilience to climate change, access to basic water and sanitation, increased food security, rural revitalization, gender equality, improved health, and a better environment.

ADB's focus on Water: In-Depth
ADB Announces $200 Million Goal for Water Resilience Program
More on the Asia and the Pacific Water Resilience Initiative

Our Impact

Results delivered in 2021 from ADB projects.

0 million

People benefitting from improved water supply and sanitation services

0 million

People benefitting from improved flood management

0

People benefitting from improved irrigation

Your Questions Answered

What are the main drivers of water scarcity in developing Asia?

Climate change, population increase, and urbanization are among the key factors that negatively influence water security. According to the 2020 World Economic Forum’s Global Risks Report, extreme weather events with major damage to property, infrastructure and loss of human life are a key driver of water scarcity.
What are the three most cost-effective ways of boosting water security in ADB’s poorest member countries?

The most cost-effective way is promoting water conservation, and more efficient water use. If water supply lost from leakage can be captured, this is often much more cost-effective than developing new water sources.
How is climate change impacting on water security in Asia and the Pacific?

Water is the primary medium through which the effects of climate change are felt. Due to climate change, the frequency and magnitude of natural hazards are increasing, with unprecedented effects on local populations, the environment, and economies. Resilient water and sanitation management has become extremely urgent and central to climate adaptation.