• Webinars
Groundwater Governance in a Changing Climate: Law, Policy, and Practical Pathways
25.06.2026

 

Thursday 25 June 2026 | 15:00-16:30 CEST | Online (Zoom) | Webinar no. 80

As climate change intensifies droughts, floods and water scarcity around the world, strengthening groundwater governance has become more important than ever.

For instance, groundwater is one of the world’s largest sources of freshwater, providing drinking water for around 2.5 billion people. It  sustains agriculture, industry and ecosystems, while playing a critical role in climate adaptation and resilience. Yet despite its importance, groundwater often remains overlooked in policy, planning and investment decisions.

Our webinar “Groundwater Governance in a Changing Climate: Law, Policy and Practical Pathways”, jointly organised by the International Water Resources Association and the Environmental Defense Fund, examines why effective groundwater governance matters and how it can be strengthened as the impacts of climate change intensify.

In a dynamic session featuring keynote presentations, a panel discussion and a round of Q&A, we explore global groundwater risks, legal approaches, data tools and case-based experiences from around the world.

Join us for a timely discussion on the future of groundwater governance in a changing climate.

Expert panel

Introduction, Moderation, Q&A and Closing remarks

  • Lili Yu, IWRA

Opening remarks

  • Ann Hayden, EDF

Keynote speakers

  • Fan Zhang, World Bank
  • Maurice Hall, EDF
  • Jinjun You, IWHR / GWP China

Panel discussion

  • Wolfgang Kinzelbach, ETH Zurich
  • Shammy Puri, Centre for Sustainable Solutions in Practical Hydrogeology

IWRA Webinars constitute an additional resource designed to help our members, academics, dedicated practitioners, and policy professionals further explore these and other timely themes engaging in fruitful discussions, also aligned with the international water agenda and in close collaboration with key partners.