Irrigation Subsector Guidance Note: Building Blocks for Sustainable Investment

One of ADB's irrigation subsector goals is to produce more food with less water. Estimates suggest that food production in the developing world must double by 2050. By that year, urban and industrial water demand will have increased from 20% of total regional demand to 40% (about 80% of that water demand is for irrigation). This publication helps define core support areas in the irrigation subsector and set the course for country partnership strategy investments in irrigation for lending and nonlending assistance.

This guidance note can assist and strengthen the preparation of projects that increase food productivity and security, use water within the resource availability limits, and produce long-term benefits. It is mainly for the use of ADB project officers at various stages of the ADB project cycle, in their negotiations with DMCs, and in the preparation of project proposals for lending and nonlending assistance. It is also for staff and consultants involved in project preparation, implementation, and review.