Tool 2.5.1: General information on water supply and demand approaches more

Under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA), Local Government is required to have particular regard to the effects of climate change. This tool acknowledges the complexity and interconnectedness of human and natural resource systems. It uses systems-thinking tools to explore the complex dynamics of urban water supply and demand approaches, including relevant social factors, with particular regard to communities adapting to the effects of climate change.
This tool is based on findings of the Wellington case study on urban water supply management, which is part of a FRST funded collaborative research project on community vulnerability, resilience and adaptation to climate change led by the New Zealand Climate Change research Institute (CCRI). This case study used scenarios to explore the impacts of key factors such as population growth, water intensity and climate change on water supply and demand in Wellington, and systems-thinking tools to explore the implications of response options. A key finding of the Wellington case study is the importance of demand management, along with community engagement, participation and collaboration for adapting to an increased risk of water shortages.