Our lives are continuously becoming more ‘smart’ thanks to next gen tech. So it makes sense that we get smart about water too, especially when water scarcity is exacerbated by climate change. A new report by the World Bank says the mismanagement of this could cost some countries as much as 6% of their GDP.With this in mind, we sat down with Anne Freeman, Deputy Director at UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, to talk about the GBP2.3 billion spend in flood defence. In China, floods cost the nation close to RMB2 trillion in 2000 – 2014 and with urban areas prone to flood risk, we take a closer look at the current popular answer: sponge cities. Meanwhile, Ecosoftt’s Stanley Samuel & Marcus Lin share how their Water SMART Blue Building standard can be a solution to urban areas not covered by China’s central systems. As for rural areas in China, Lien Aid’s Ivanna Tan introduces a new model in village water management. Much worry over water pollution means we also need to get smart about water safety. Dr. Howard Dryden tells us how the up-cycled glass AFM® filter he invented can lower costs and bacteria for municipal and industrial use. We can also be water smart ourselves. Patricia Dwyer of The Purpose Business Group reminds us that our habits & actions, however small, can make a difference. Another good place to start to get smart about water is at the Singapore International Water Week in July 2016, where you can rub shoulders with industry players and share the latest in business, science & tech innovations.  Also, don’t miss out on the BlueTech China Awards for water solutions in Shanghai in June 2016.