Waterproof

What if cities could float? What if we could predict floods before they happen? Or even create water from air?

In the latest episode of our Waterproof podcast, we explore bold ideas and breakthrough innovations that could reshape how we live with water. From floating urban developments and digital twins that help predict floods, to new approaches to water governance and solutions that improve everyday lives.

Featuring insights from:
Rutger de Graaf (Blue 21) on the shift from fighting water to living on water
Mary Matthews (UNDP) on why governance and policy are the real innovations we need
Florian Witsenburg (Tygron) on the role of data and digital twins in managing floods
Rueben Moore (Solaq) on trust and culture in adopting new water sources
Tanya Huizer (Asian Development Bank) on how the Laundry Transformation can improve women’s lives

Together, they show how technology, governance and social innovation can turn water challenges into opportunities.

From satellites and weather stations to social media and AI – we have more data than ever to anticipate floods, droughts and extreme weather. But early warning is only effective if it reaches people in time.
 
In this new episode of Waterproof, host Tracy Metz speaks with five experts working at the frontline of early warning systems. Together they explore how data becomes action, why trust and cooperation matter, and how early warning evolves step by step – from global technology to local impact.
 
Featuring insights from Jurjen Wagemaker (Floodtags), Evelyn Aparicio Medrano (FutureWater), Dorien Lugt (HKV), Frank Annor (TAHMO) and Sindy Mthimkhulu (INMACOM), this episode shows why early warning is not just a technical challenge, but a human one.
 Listen now and discover how early warning systems can save lives and strengthen water resilience worldwide.

This edition of Waterproof is all about how modern-day science and age-old indigenous knowledge can be used to solve today’s water crises. So, not one or the other but both, fused together to come up with solutions to our common and increasing problems.
Tracy spoke to four water experts from all over the world: a Maya from Mexico, a Fijian, a Sami woman from Sweden, and a native Hawaiian. They were members of an indigenous delegation to the 2025 Stockholm Water Week. And they all agree: their voices need to beheard.
All this, plus amazing Lo-TEK solutions to today’s High Tech problems. Find out what they are in this edition of Waterproof: The Indigenous Voice. 
Our guests are:
Julia Watson: landscape architect and author of the book Lo-TEK.
Dr. Yolanda López Maldonado: indigenous Maya woman and founder of Indigenous Science.
Anna-Kari Kroik: Stockholm-based, Sami teacher.
Dr. KaiLei’a Duriano: indigenous Scientist fromHawaii.
Dr. Milika Sobey: Senior Technical Adviser-CoastalEcosystems.

Waterproof is the Partners for Water podcast that travels the globe sharing uplifting stories about how today’s water crises are being tackled through smart ideas, local knowledge and international partnerships. Hosted by water expert Tracy Metz, Waterproof delves into crucial water themes with local and international experts, researchers, practitioners and other water professionals.
Find more information here: https://partnersforwater.nl/news/waterproof-podcast/

In this episode, we meet activists and campaigners who believe rivers and nature should have legal rights – just like people. They walk rivers, swim in urban waterways, write books, work with communities, and even take governments to court. All with one goal: ensuring clean, healthy rivers and cities where people can swim safely.

Featuring:
Matt Sykes – Co-Founder, Swimmable Cities
Li An Phoa – Initiator, Drinkable Rivers
Robert MacFarlane – Author
Harpo ’t Hart – Artistic Director, Embassy of the North Sea

In this new episode, we meet activists and campaigners who believe rivers and nature should have legal rights – just like people. They walk rivers, swim in urban waterways, write books, work with communities, and even take governments to court. All with one goal: ensuring clean, healthy rivers and cities where people can swim safely.
Featuring:
Matt Sykes – Co-Founder, Swimmable Cities
Li An Phoa – Initiator, Drinkable Rivers
Robert MacFarlane – Author
Harpo ’t Hart – Artistic Director, Embassy of the North Sea