Coping with Water Deficiency

Abstract

In keeping with the Water Framework Directive, this book stresses the need for an Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) approach to balance the competing demands for water among the domestic, agricultural, industrial, tourist, and environmental/ecological sectors. The IWRM also promotes economically efficient, socially equitable, and environmentally sustainable water use in selected regions in Southern Europe, the Mediterranean, and the developing world.Research results discussed in this book demonstrate that effective water management tools and decision-making practices are needed to support interventions to increase availability and manage the growing demand for scarce water supplies. Furthermore, the book bridges the gap between ideas and actions endorsed in the research-oriented environmental debate and their translation into policymaking structures and programs in developed and developing countries.Many water resources management topics are covered, including research tools for the characterization of water stress, policy proposals for its alleviation, tools and methods for decision-making, water policies and pricing schemes, stakeholder participation, and social issues.