Water pollution threatens Asia’s growth as urgent action looms

Industrialisation and population growth are outpacing water infrastructure.

Asia’s industrial growth is fueling a water pollution crisis, with countries like China struggling to cope. Urgent action on water management and infrastructure is vital, warned Tania Strauss, Head of Food and Water at the World Economic Forum (WEF).

“Water pollution globally is one of the most pressing challenges facing our water resources, alongside flooding and drought,” Strauss stated. 

In China, groundwater contamination is so widespread that nearly 70% of rivers and lakes in the Mekong Delta are no longer fit for human use. This situation is particularly alarming in Vietnam, where agriculture relies heavily on these water sources. 

“We need to be more mindful of the role of sustainable intensification and require more safeguards to manage water both in agricultural production and surrounding watersheds,” Strauss urged.

Strauss pointed to China's 10-Point Water Plan, which includes stringent monitoring standards and massive investments in wastewater treatment infrastructure. “It’s an aggressive approach to addressing water degradation and contamination, but the scale of the problem requires such action,” she said.

Singapore, a country with limited natural freshwater resources, offers a model of comprehensive water management. Its ABC (Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters) program has transformed its waterways using nature-based solutions. 

“Singapore’s systemic vision combines urban planning with water management,” Strauss explained, noting how the city-state relies on four key strategies—water catchment, recycling, desalination, and imports—to meet its water needs.

Despite these advances, Strauss believes more action is urgently needed. “Water pollution management becomes even more urgent as research uncovers the impacts of contaminants on health and well-being,” she said. 

Strauss is hopeful that increased collaboration between governments and the private sector will drive meaningful change. “We need to take a systems view and support early-stage innovators. It’s a priority for the World Economic Forum, and we remain committed on this journey,” she concluded.