IWRM - Integrated Water Resources Management

Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) is a process that promotes the coordinated development and management of water, land and related resources in order to maximize economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems.*

Description

Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) is a comprehensive and coordinated approach to managing water resources in a sustainable, equitable, and efficient manner. It aims to balance the competing demands of water for domestic, agricultural, industrial, and environmental purposes while ensuring the long-term sustainability of water ecosystems.

IWRM promotes the integration of policies, institutions, and stakeholders to address water-related challenges, such as scarcity, pollution, and climate change. It emphasizes participatory decision-making, cross-sectoral collaboration, and the protection of ecosystems to ensure water security for present and future generations. This approach aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6), which focuses on ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for all.

*Source: UN environment programme