International Atomic Energy Agency launches global network to improve water management strategies.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has launched the Global Water Analysis Laboratory (GloWAL) Network to help countries develop water management strategies. The network will provide assistance in generating data on water samples, which can inform national water policies and governance. It will also strengthen water management capacity through training fellowships and staff exchanges. The network aims to encourage partnerships between developed and developing countries in regional sub-networks in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean, Asia and the Pacific, and Central Asia.

The GloWAL network will contribute to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation by providing water analysis capabilities, contributing to the understanding of the hydrological cycle. Isotope hydrology will be used to measure isotope ratios in water. Stable isotopic tracers can be used to determine water quality, while unstable (radioactive) tracers can be used to track water movement.

The IAEA will use its considerable resources and expertise to improve water analysis capabilities and support the growth of the network through designated laboratories, each categorized as one of three ‘Nodes’. Development Nodes have basic water analysis capacity and require significant investment, Growth Nodes are operational but need more equipment or capacity development, and Anchor Nodes are well-equipped and support other laboratories or countries.

Overall, the GloWAL network will assist countries in developing tailored water management strategies, strengthen water management capacity, and contribute to the attainment of Sustainable Development Goal 6 on clean water and sanitation.