Integrated Water Resources Management ( IWRM )

Abstract

Abstract Compared to traditional approaches to water resources problems, integrated water resources management (IWRM) takes a broader holistic view and examines a more complete range of solutions. It looks outside the narrow water sector for policies and activities to achieve sustainable water resources development. It also considers how different actions affect and can reinforce each other. IWRM has attracted particular attention since the International Conferences on Water and Environmental in Dublin in 1992. IWRM can be defined as follows: “IWRM is a process which promotes the coordinated development and management of water, land and related resources in order to maximize the resultant economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems” (2). IWRM principles place its overriding importance over economic, social, and natural facets. It draws its inspiration from the Dublin principles, culminating from the International Conference on Water and the Environment in Dublin, 1992. These are the four Dublin principles: Freshwater is a finite and vulnerable resource, essential to sustain life, development and the environment. Water development and management should be based on a participatory approach, involving users, planners, and policy makers at all levels. Water has an economic value in all its competing uses and should be recognized as an economic good. Women must play a central part in the provision, management and safeguarding of water.