Using DPSIR and balances to support water governance

Abstract

The DPSIR framework has proven to be an effective communication tool, but has become subject to criticism upon increasing practical application. It is assumed that this is the consequence of the combination of terminological unclarity, absence of a methodological description for analyzing disturbances, and a confined conceptual basis when dealing with complex environmental issues. DPSIR has been embedded within the broader conceptual Pentatope Model (PTM), by making use of an 'interface' called GASI. GASI, which means Governance by Actor-Subject Impact Assessment, deals explicitly with governance as a framework and impact analysis as a process. The result is an extended version of DPSIR. Illustrated by means of a water balance, the importance of a combined PTM-GASI-DPSIR tool for impact assessments to support evidence-based governance is shown.