Principles of water management for people and the environment
Acreman, M.
IUCN Wetlands Programme Newsletter 15: 25-29
1997
Document Number: 278800
At the IUCN World Conservation Congress in Montreal in 1996 a workshop was held on water and population dynamics. In preparation for the workshop, IUCN assisted in the creation of nine country teams, each composed of one water and one population expert. This paper presents the ideas formulated by a member of the expect panel to stimulate discussion and provide a framework for the case studies. It commences by illustrating the ecological importance, global variation, natural climate cycles and man-induced global changes. It assesses water consumption rates in the context of increasing population. Next, it argues that the choice between water for people or water for the environment is in reality a false dichotomy as providing water to the environment means water indirectly for people. More attention needs to be given to the role of natural ecosystems in managing the hydrological cycle and their potential as alternatives to major engineering works. Conserving wetlands, in particular, can be a positive benefit to humanity. Ten principles of water management are listed: (1) value water; (2) use water sustainably; (3) develop suitable institutions to manage water; (4) collect and disseminate information; (5) maintain a social and cultural perspective; (6) ensure equitable access to water; (7) use appropriate technology; (8) try to solve causes not symptoms (but accept practical solutions); (9) take an ecosystem approach; (10) work as multidisciplinary teams. These principles are illustrated by brief case studies from Africa, Asia and Europe. It is concluded that a new philosophy of water management is called for. Traditionally management has been founded on providing enough for people to drink, grow food and support industries and providing water to the environment was often viewed as a luxury which only rich countries could afford. Now sound water management must focus on the global ecosystem.