China Water Week 2025: From March 22 to 28, China is celebrating its 38th Water Week, coinciding with World Water Day. This year’s theme, “Promoting high-quality development in the water sector for national water security,” underscores the nation’s commitment to safeguarding its vital water resources.
Water resources are fundamental to economic development and the well-being of people. Recognizing this, China’s Ministry of Water Resources, Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development, and the National Development and Reform Commission have introduced various policies emphasizing water conservation and sustainable management over the years.
Embracing Smart Water Management
During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, China has accelerated the development of smart water management. This innovative approach integrates the Internet of Things (IoT), big data, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence to enhance data collection, transmission, processing, and service applications in water resource management.
By improving real-time monitoring, decision-making, and emergency response, smart water solutions contribute to more efficient and sustainable water governance. These technologies are transforming the way water resources are managed, ensuring a balance between development and conservation.
Pioneering Projects Across the Nation
A notable example is Shenzhen’s digital drainage and water environment management platform. In response to increasing extreme weather events, this system enhances urban flood resilience and water quality, particularly in the Shenzhen River Basin in Guangdong Province. By utilizing advanced technologies, the platform provides better flood control and protects the local environment.
In Kunshan City, Jiangsu Province, the smart drainage network management platform integrates big data visualization and real-time monitoring for efficient drainage operations. The project enhances digital management by conducting a citywide pipeline survey, standardizing data, and establishing a unified database. By deeply integrating the smart platform with operational workflows, it enables visible, controllable, and intelligent management, driving innovation in urban drainage.
Raising Public Awareness
Across China, various promotional and educational activities during the 38th Water Week aim to raise public awareness of water conservation and sustainable resource management. By fostering a culture of valuing and protecting water resources, these initiatives encourage communities to participate actively in conservation efforts.
The collective efforts during China Water Week 2025 highlight the nation’s dedication to securing its water future through innovation, policy, and public engagement.
