The Hebei province is experiencing severe water shortages resulting in serious environmental and socio-ecological problems. To combat these issues, the provincial government has encouraged rainwater utilisation for agriculture as well as improving soil and water conservancy and vegetation cover. The most important lesson is that rainwater is able to alleviate water shortage particularly in dry season or dry zones.
In Bolivia, shifts towards the privatisation of water supply and sewage services caused strong dissatisfaction, resulting in the eruption of social conflict. Because of the severe dissatisfaction, action was taken to cancel the previous agreements and instead launch a forum where government representatives, social organizations, the private sector and municipalities participate to formulate of a new policy. This case illustrates the crucial importance of rooting policies with the public.
Drinking water supply of the Rabat-Casablanca coastal area has depended on water transfers from groundwater. Estimates showed that transfers would have to be extended to include surface water, if water requirements were to be met, requiring water transfer together with investments in production, distribution and sanitation. A policy initiative was undertaken to address the issue. The key lesson is that integration of water demand management in water policies is effective for strengthening water security.