Editorial Issue 1/2022

The Blue Papers journal provides a platform for the growing network, with the first issues launched in time for the UN 2023 Water Conference in New York, 22–24 March 2023, which coincides with the Midterm Review of the UN Water Action Decade. A growing number of people have come to realize that valuing water needs to go beyond technological, political and economic changes. The conference provides the background for a broad exploration of the role that culture, heritage and social practices play in current water challenges, and those they can play to support future inclusive and sustainable development. This requires an advanced engagement with the social, cultural and intrinsic value of water, by creating a new embedded water awareness 2.0.