Solutions to Cartagena’s water challenges

Planning for a resilient future in Colombia's port city

GBA: Resilience | Country: Colombia

In its culture, economy, and urban layout, water is central to the Colombian city of Cartagena. However, a range of challenges – from climate change to fast-paced urban growth and socio-economic inequality – threaten the health and sustainability of Cartagena’s waterways. The Water as Leverage (WaL) project is about finding solutions that work for the city's people and for the environment. 

Our consortium of Colombian and Dutch experts developed concept designs to address Cartagena's water-related challenges. During 2024, we advanced three of these designs to the pre-feasibility stage. Sustainable solutions integrated into our designs include mangrove restoration, circular water management solutions, water transport initiatives to benefit locals and tourists, and collecting and processing waste to prevent clogging of water bodies. With ongoing community engagement through workshops, we have reached out to hundreds of community members to ensure that the designs align closely with local needs. The next phase will see one final design detailed to the feasibility stage, focusing on bankability to support future investment.

By combining local input with our own technical expertise in water management, we've set out a path to a more resilient future for Cartagena.

   Jeroen Klooster, Senior Economist