The need for a hydro-special approach for water management

Context

The Global Water System Project, which was launched in 2003 as a joint initiative of the Earth System Science Partnership (ESSP) and Global Environmental Change (GEC) programme, epitomises global concern about the human-induced transformation of fresh water and its impact on the earth system and society.

What the editorial is about?

The freshwater resources are under stress, the principal driver being human activities in their various forms.

Water valuation

IPCC Report

• In its fourth assessment report in 2007, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) highlighted the link between societal vulnerability and modifications of water systems.

The gap between demand and supply

• It is globally estimated that the gap between demand for and supply of freshwater may reach up to 40% by 2030 i