The first Arcadis Sustainable Cities Water Index shows that North American cities, threatened by both water scarcity and natural disasters, are among the most at risk in the developed world. In fact, no U.S. cities placed in the top 10 of the global rankings of water sustainability.
The new study by Arcadis measures 50 global cities across a broad spectrum of sustainability issues impacting water resiliency, efficiency and quality. The study highlights the importance of water as a critical urban asset that is imperative to long-term success, economic development and overall sustainability.
Key findings for North America: Resiliency hampering water sustainability
Toronto, ranked 6th globally, Washington D.C. (13th) and New York (14th) represent North America’s most sustainable water cities while Los Angeles ranks second for efficiency. Cities in North America tend to outperform other world cities when it comes to water quality. In fact, Toronto, Chicago and Philadelphia rank in the top three North American and global cities for ensuring a healthy and clean water supply.
However, U.S. cities are more exposed to natural risks than peers in Europe. For instance, L.A. ranks near the bottom in resiliency because of its susceptibility to drought, earthquakes and storms while Superstorm Sandy’s storm surge and flooding highlighted NYC’s vulnerability to climate change and sea level rise. Fortunately, cities can manage these risks to make themselves more resilient. For example, NYC’s risk-based planning against storm surge will increase resilience and protection for residents, which can deliver significant cost savings long-term, while L.A. is working to improve its water sources and storage.
“The way cities manage their water issues has a direct correlation with quality of life, yet not all are dealt an even hand by Mother Nature,” explains Michael MacPhee, president of Water for Arcadis North America. “For instance, American cities in the index show their vulnerability to natural disasters and extreme weather, with seven U.S. cities falling to the bottom half of the list when measured for their resiliency to natural threats. U.S. cities that carefully and creatively use their water assets for strategic urban advantage will ultimately be more livable, safe and competitive, while attracting tourism and investment.”
The 2016 Sustainable Cities Water Index rankings are as below, with full details available at: www.arcadis.com/waterindex
North American cities show strength but have room for improvement
Philadelphia: #17
Resiliency: 25
Efficiency: 29
Quality: 3
Strengths: The creation of “Green City, Clean Waters” totally changed the way Philadelphia deals with stormwater, adding green, permeable surfaces to streets, sidewalks, roofs, schools, parks, and parking lots. According to the Philadelphia Water Department, the work will reduce the stormwater pollution entering waterways by a stunning 85 percent.
Improvements to increase rankings: The utility’s 2016 budget notes that the city’s most critical risk over the next 5-year period is upgrading aging infrastructure with limited capital.
About Arcadis
Arcadis is the leading global design & consultancy firm for natural and built assets. Applying our deep market sector insights and collective design, consultancy, engineering, project and management services, we work in partnership with our clients to deliver exceptional and sustainable outcomes throughout the lifecycle of their natural and built assets. We are 27,000 people active in over 70 countries that generate more than $3.8 billion in revenues. We support UN-Habitat with knowledge and expertise to improve the quality of life in rapidly growing cities around the world. www.arcadis.com.
