June 1993
Special Issue: Environment and Water Development: Some Critical Issues
ENVIRONMENT AND WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT: THE NEED FOR A NEW HOLISTIC APPROACH (pp. 117-125)
Asit K. Biswasa and Habib N. El-Habrb
aPresident, International Society for Ecological Modelling, Oxford OX2, UK; bUnited Nations Environment Programme, Kenya
Abstract: The present approach to environmental assessment of water resources development is seriously flawed and unsatisfactory. While no one will argue against the importance of carrying out environmental assessment, the real question remains how this assessment can be carried out properly and efficiently for the benefit of society as a whole. This paper outlines some of the major problems associated with the environmental assessment techniques used at present, and argues that until and unless these shortcomings are recognized, improvements are likely to be limited in the future.
SUSTAINABLE WATER DEVELOPMENT: IMPLICATIONS FOR THE FUTURE (pp. 127-154)
Genady N. Golubev, Assistant Director General, World Conservation Union, Switzerland
Abstract: This paper provides a review of the following principal water problems as seen in the light of sustainable development strategy: the main functions of fresh water in the Earth system; availability of water resources per capita by countries now and by 2025; the impacts of climate change; problems related to dams and reservoirs and to water transfers; the issues of irrigation; water management as a skilful balance of water supply and demand in a multidisciplinary space; water quality problems and their management now and in the future; the need for comprehensive, basin-wide strategies in planning; and management of water resources and the environment.
ENVIRONMENTALLY SOUND WATER MANAGEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT (pp. 155-165)
Yahia Abdel Mageed, Associated Consultants, Khartoum, Sudan
Abstract: Environmentally sound management of inland waters (EMINWA) is an important concept. This paper reviews the emerging environmental challenges in the field of water resources and the strength of the EMINWA concept to meet those challenges successfully. The elements of river basin action plans, especially those that are regional in character, are outlined. Aspects of cost estimates and some selected case studies are discussed.
MANAGEMENT OF INTERNATIONAL WATERS: PROBLEMS AND PERSPECTIVE (pp. 167-188)
Asit K. Biswas, President, International Society for Ecological Modelling, Oxford, UK, and International Development Centre, University of Oxford
Abstract: Management of international water resources has not received adequate attention in the recent past, even though such bodies are often the last major source of water available for development. International organizations have generally tended to shy away from these complex issues because of their political sensitivity. Currently even a reliable picture of the extent and magnitude of the problem is unknown. This ‘softly, softly’ approach has to change. This paper objectively reviews some of the major developments on this increasingly critical issue during the past two decades.
EIA GUIDELINES FOR WATER RESOURCES DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS (pp. 189-204)
Krishna Pal and R. Rajappa, Water and Power Consultancy Services (India) Limited, India
Abstract: This paper is a spin-off of a document developed by Water and Power Consultancy Services on Sustainable Water Resources Development and Management to carry out Environmental Impact Assessment Study. In this phase the aims, objectives and approach to prepare guideline are discussed, taking into account the policy and legal considerations. The various stages in EIA are reported along with assessment techniques for sustainable development.
CONFERENCE REPORTS
The Stockholm Water Symposium, Stockholm, Sweden, 10-14 August 1992
Middle East Water Forum Cairo, Egypt, 7-9 February 1993
International Symposium on Snow and Glacier Hydrology, Kathmandu, Nepal, 16-21 November 1992
Second Mediterranean Conference on Water, Rome, Italy, 28-30 October 1992