Aggregate extraction or industrial sand mining – that is, the removal of sand and gravel from its natural environment to be used for construction – is “the environmental catastrophe you’ve never heard of”, says the World Economic Forum.

Water systems and utilities under the circular economy model ensure that the value and usefulness of resources are preserved for a long time.

In this knowledge sharing session, Claudio de Jesus of Águas de Portugal discussed the opportunity for water utilities to shift from a conventional operational model to one that supports the circular economy, maximizing the use and value of water and conserving both natural and financial capital.

Smart technologies are changing the game in water utility management.

In this knowledge sharing session, ADB staff who attended a week-long training on smart water utility management and innovations in the urban water sector with the Macao Water Utility shared insights and experiences gained from the event. They also shared some good practices from a well-managed water operator such as the Macao Water Utility, which can be adopted in ADB's urban projects.

Advances in blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies are gaining significant attention across the development sector, but they may open new avenues for integrity risks and corruption. ADB's Sustainable Development and Climate Change Department and Office of Anticorruption and Integrity are promoting a balance between the hype and the future potential of these solutions versus the risks of corruption.

Under Strategy 2030, ADB will sustain its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty and expand its vision to achieve a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific. Health sector development is one of the key operational priorities under the Strategy 2030. ADB will support its developing member countries to achieve better health for all as well as other service delivery in social sectors for those in need.

Some Asian economies are aging at unprecedented speed. While there are other economies that remain young, no Asian economies will be safe from risk of growing old before becoming rich. In addition to this, technological advances such as robotics and artificial intelligence (AI) will no doubt play a role in reshaping the future of work.

Developing sustainable, long-term flood resilience requires a management strategy that combines a portfolio of solutions—social, economic, financial, environmental, institutional aspects, engineering, disaster preparedness, insurance, and emergency response requirements. This integrated approach is the only way to manage flood risks especially as climate change evolves.

Ensuring water availability and increasing water efficiency are crucial in attaining social and economic development.

In this knowledge sharing session, ADB's Stephane Bessadi, Saugata Dasgupta, and Massimo Petrone shared their practical experiences and knowledge in addressing intermittent water supply. They also discussed ways to reduce nonrevenue water losses and achieve 24/7 water supply provision in ADB's developing member countries.

Infrastructure in support of sustainable development has a critical role to play in Southeast Asia's economic growth, poverty reduction, and environmental sustainability.