WATER RESOURCES AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

Increased criticism to the concept of development only through GDP and its negative consequences (environmental degradation) led to a new concept of development - sustainable development, which protects the environment and promotes social equality. Sustainable development means meeting the needs without compromising the future generations to meet their needs. Three are the main aspects of sustainable development: environmental protection; economic growth; social equality. The degree of achieving of sustainable development largely depends on the availability of water resources, because they are essential for life, human development and economic activity. Since the eighties of the twentieth century, along with the concept of sustainable development, the need for introducing sustainable water management has begun in developed countries. The European Union has first joined a new era of water policy that establishes an integrated approach to water resource management. The main objective is to ensure good hydrological, chemical and ecological status of waters. Today, integral water management is an integral part of sustainable use of water, which is particularly highlighted in the EU Water Directives. Integrated Water Resources Management is a process that promotes a coordinated approach to management of water, land and other resources, without compromising the sustainability of the ecosystems. The management ultimately means measures of efficient water use, water recycling, elimination of losses, financial motivation for water saving, use of new sources, investment in education, science and information systems for monitoring and forecasting. Sustainable water management is based on the principle that water is an integral part of an ecosystem and it is natural, social and economical resource.