Water for Planet: Nature-based Solutions to Protect Aquatic Ecosystems

Healthy aquatic ecosystems are fundamental to water security, biodiversity, climate resilience and sustainable development. As countries work towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6, particularly Target 6.6 on protecting and restoring water-related ecosystems, nature-based solutions are increasingly being recognised as effective approaches for addressing water challenges while delivering environmental, social and economic benefits.

This webinar forms part of the Global Youth Movement for Water & UN Major Group for Children and Youth (UNMGCY) Capacity Development Series towards the 2026 United Nations Water Conference, equipping young people with the knowledge and tools needed to contribute to global water action. Focusing on the Water for Planet theme, the session will explore how nature-based solutions can complement or replace traditional grey infrastructure to improve water management while protecting and restoring aquatic ecosystems. Participants will hear from experts and practitioners working on innovative solutions around the world, ranging from wetland restoration and watershed conservation to urban green infrastructure and ecosystem-based approaches for improving water quality, reducing flood risks and enhancing climate resilience. Through practical examples and interactive discussions, the webinar will demonstrate how investing in nature can generate multiple benefits for both people and the planet.

The session will also highlight opportunities for young professionals and youth-led organisations to engage in the design, implementation and advocacy of nature-based solutions within their own communities, contributing to more resilient and sustainable water systems.

Please note: the event will be hosted in English, with no translation available. Participation is free of charge, and no certificate will be provided.

• 1st webinar: Introduction to the 2026 UN Water Conference and the Global Youth Movement for Water
• 2nd webinar: Water for Planet: Nature-based Solutions to Protect Aquatic Ecosystems
• 3rd webinar: Water for Prosperity: Empowering Youth, Shaping Prosperity Through Water
• 4th webinar: Water for Finance: Youth dialogue on Investments, Financing, Innovation and Impact
• 5th webinar: Water for People: Advancing Equitable Access to Water and Sanitation

Young Water Professionals, practitioners, academics and researchers, utilities, students, engineers, and other interested stakeholders.

By participating in this webinar, you will: -Understand what nature-based solutions are and their role in protecting and restoring aquatic ecosystems. -Explore how nature-based solutions contribute to achieving SDG 6, climate resilience and sustainable water management. -Learn from international experts and practitioners implementing nature-based solutions across different regions and contexts. -Discover opportunities for young people to support, implement and advocate for nature-based solutions in their own countries and communities.

• Emily Kroft, International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), moderator

Confirmed Speakers:

• Angela Stiegler, Hazen and Sawyer
• Divine Gloria Tuyikunde, IWA YWP Rwanda Chapter

This webinar is part of the Global Youth Movement for Water (GYMW) & UN Major Group for Children and Youth (UNMGCY) Capacity Development Series towards the 2026 United Nations Water Conference. The series brings together young water professionals, youth-led organisations, international organisations and sector experts to strengthen the capacity of young people to engage meaningfully in the preparatory process for the Conference.

Through eight interactive webinars, participants will explore the key themes of the 2026 UN Water Conference, deepen their understanding of global water governance, and connect with a global network of young leaders committed to advancing water security and sustainable development. The series will culminate in the development of a Youth Position Statement, reflecting the perspectives and recommendations of young people from around the world to support youth engagement before, during and beyond the 2026 UN Water Conference.

The Global Youth Movement for Water is a collaborative initiative led together by the International Secretariat for Water (ISW), UNESCO, the International Water Association (IWA), the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD), the Water Youth Network (WYN), the United Nations Major Group for Children and Youth (UNMGCY), AJPEAS, AFR'EAU, Wavemakers United Foundation, and other partners committed to empowering the next generation of water leaders.

The UN Major Group for Children and Youth (UNMGCY) engages on water-related issues through the Water Youth Network (WYN), which serves as the SDG 6 constituency lead.