Global milestone in water science
Expert(s) |
Antonio Moreno Rodenas
|
Jing Deng
|
Isabel Gerritsma
From 10 to 13 June 2025, UNESCO celebrated the 50th anniversary of its Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP) at its headquarters in Paris. This milestone event brought together global leaders in water science to reflect on five decades of progress and to shape the future of sustainable water management. Deltares was honoured to take part in this important occasion, which also marked 60 years of UNESCO’s commitment to advancing water sciences.
A partnership rooted in science and impact
The longstanding collaboration between Deltares and UNESCO-IHP plays a vital role in addressing today’s complex water challenges. By combining scientific expertise with practical implementation, we contribute to more resilient, equitable, and climate-adaptive water systems worldwide. Our joint efforts span groundwater monitoring, drought/flood risk reduction, and capacity building in vulnerable regions.
AI in water: UNESCO-Deltares
A highlight of the celebration was the side event on 13 June, titled : 'Applications of Artificial Intelligence for Water', where Deltares colleagues Antonio Moreno Rodenas, Isabel Gerritsma and Jing Deng were invited speakers.
The session, organised by the UNESCO-IHP team explored how AI and machine learning are transforming water management, from flood forecasting and groundwater modelling to sustainable hydropower. Ethical considerations and the responsible use of AI in hydrology were also key themes of the discussion.
Multiple international examples demonstrated the powerful application of machine learning in advancing water science.
New publication bridges AI and water management
Earlier this year, Deltares and UNESCO-IHP jointly released a new publication: Applications of AI for Water Management, which was physically launched at the 50th Anniversary of IHP in Paris.
This practical guide is tailored for policymakers, water professionals, and engineers who may not have a background in artificial intelligence or data science. It provides accessible insights into how AI can be applied responsibly to enhance water governance and operational decision-making.
With our joint Deltares-UNESCO publication on AI we aim to make the field more accessible to water professionals and spark deeper reflection on AI, ethics, equity, and good governance for one of our most vital resources: water.
Antonio Moreno Rodenas, Deltares
Responsible innovation for a water-secure future
Deltares is proud to support UNESCO-IHP in its mission to advance water science for sustainable development. We look forward to continuing this impactful partnership in the years to come.
