Infodoc : Sciences, Techniques et Culture

The concept of sustainability can be broken down into 3 aspects – social, economic and environmental. The importance of each aspect and possible interactions between the three spheres gives rise to the notions of “strong” and “weak” sustainability. Sustainable management of a river is best done at the river basin level. The principal challenges are associated with the effectiveness of the institutions responsible for the river management and the cooperation of all stakeholders within the basin. These institutions should determine objectives within a framework that is sustainable from an economic, ecological and social point of view. They should have the legislative power and financial means necessary to carry out their decisions. A sustainable balance between economic development and [...]

The concept of sustainability can be broken down into 3 aspects – social, economic and environmental. The importance of each aspect and possible interactions between the three spheres gives rise to the notions of “strong” and “weak” sustainability. Sustainable management of a river is best done at the river basin level. The principal challenges are associated with the effectiveness of the institutions responsible for the river management and the cooperation of all stakeholders within the basin. These institutions should determine objectives within a framework that is sustainable from an economic, ecological and social point of view. They should have the legislative power and financial means necessary to carry out their decisions. A sustainable balance between economic development and the protection of the environment can only be achieved if the value of services and good provided by the environment is taken into account in cost benefit calculations. These calculations cannot, however, take into account the complete value of the environment and the integrity of resources which are essential for life must be respected. Decisions made in the sustainable development framework depend heavily on a good understanding of ecosystem functions throughout the basin. River ecosystems are complex and involve the entire river basin. Indicators are an important way of controlling the actions taken in the basin, assisting decision making and ensuring the sustainability of the river ecosystem. They should cover the ecological, economic and social aspects of life in the river basin. Institutions should have the means necessary to carry out the studies required to develop a set of indicators.