International Conference on Water and the Environment: Development Issues for the 2lst century

This report presents the outcomes of an international conference that examined global freshwater challenges and their implications for sustainable development. It assesses the status of freshwater resources, growing pressures from population growth, economic development and environmental degradation, and the risks posed to human health, food production and ecosystems. The document outlines coordinated approaches for integrated water resources development and management, water resources assessment, protection of water quality and aquatic ecosystems, and improved water supply, sanitation and food production systems. It also reviews institutional, legal and financial mechanisms required for implementation at international, national and local levels. The report identifies priority actions, capacity-building needs, and monitoring systems necessary to support sustainable water management and long-term environmental protection.