Definition of IWRM

As far as definition of IWRM is concerned, each active entity has defined or more precisely expressed IWRM in its own style, which in a broader sense required the same efforts to implement and yields the same result. So it would be interesting to look at how GWP (Global Water Partnership)  EC (European Commission) and USAID defines the IWRM.

1.    GWP definition of IWRM as “A process that promotes the co-ordinated development and management of water, land and related resources, in order to maximize the resultant economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems.”

2.    And EC describes it with same meaning but with slightly different wordings “IWRM expresses the idea that water resources should be managed in a holistic way, coordinating and integrating all aspects and functions of water extraction, water control and water-related service delivery so as to bring sustainable and equitable benefit to all those, dependent on the resource (EC, 1998).”

3.    And USAID expresses it as “A participatory planning and implementation process, based on sound science, that brings stakeholders together to determine how to meet society’s long-term needs for water and coastal resources while maintaining essential ecological services and economic benefits (USAID).”