Different paradigms for dealing with urban water issues, using new technological and governance solutions, learning from Chinese, Indian and European experiences

Meine Pieter van Dijk*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Three paradigms to deal with urban water issues are compared. The analysis focuses on their definition and objectives, the role of different stakeholders, the issues they deal with, and the possible solutions suggested. The paradigms differ in scope (from the narrow focus of the sponge city paradigm to the broad goals of eco-city paradigm) and in terms of the governance structures used to coordinate different stakeholders. The smart and sponge paradigms mainly use existing government structures. In the eco-cities approach, the citizens want to be involved through newly created governance structures. Smart and eco-city initiatives emphasize the involvement of stakeholders, while in the sponge cities approach, the initiative is often taken by the local government. Finally, in terms of expected solutions, the paradigms want to create eco- or healthy cities or improve water management to create a more healthy urban environment. After identifying the issue, alternative water-related technologies are available, like generating energy from wastewater or separating grey and brown water. Cities require different governance structures, and managing information flows in an integrated way to solve water and other issues. The experience in Europe, China, and India may help other cities choose the right paradigm.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)993-1004
Number of pages12
JournalJournal of Water and Health
Volume22
Issue number6
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 Jun 2024

Keywords

  • eco-cities
  • governance
  • paradigms
  • smart cities
  • sponge cities
  • water management
  • TRANSPORT
  • CITY

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Different paradigms for dealing with urban water issues, using new technological and governance solutions, learning from Chinese, Indian and European experiences'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this