In a significant move to address Peru's environmental and water resource challenges, the governments of the United States and Canada have renewed their commitment to support the South American country. By extending the Natural Infrastructure for Water Security (NIWS) project through December 2027, the North American nations intend to invest approximately $52.1 million over a ten-year period.
The project, led by an international consortium, aims to strengthen water security and resilience to climate change through the implementation of nature-based solutions. To date, the project has generated more than eighty natural infrastructure projects valued at over $370 million, of which $36 million has already been secured.
Peru, however, faces significant challenges in terms of water resources. According to the National Center for Strategic Planning (Ceplan), it is estimated that by 2030, 58% of the Peruvian population will live in areas with water scarcity. The country is in a highly vulnerable situation due to the global water crisis and the impact of climate change. This challenge is exacerbated by the geographical characteristics of the territory, and by changes in precipitation and snow melt, which are altering hydrological systems.
In addition, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) notes that Peru is still not on track to meet the targets of Sustainable Development Goal 6, which calls for clean water and sanitation for all by 2030. This situation is exacerbated by the large gap in access to water and sewerage services between urban and rural areas.
The collaboration of U.S. and Canada on the NIWS project presents a critical opportunity to address these challenges. Through investment and the development of natural infrastructure, it seeks not only to improve water security, but also to strengthen Peru's resilience to the impacts of climate change.
