Handbook on Water Management - page 91

91
8Conclusion
Freshwater resources, which are limited and random, are increasingly used, wasted and
polluted, with the result that aquatic ecosystems are threatened and sometimes destroyed.
In a context of global changes, improved governance that respects the environment is one
of themain keys to sustainable development and poverty alleviation.
IntegratedWater ResourcesManagement of rivers and lakes should be organized at basin
level. Greater recognition should be given to the role and services provided by aquatic
ecosystems because they function as "green or natural infrastructures", ensuringmany
services, such as flow regulation and water self-purification.
More integrated basinmanagement is necessary to implement measures such as the
restoration andmaintenance of water ecosystems by natural means, or Natural Water
RetentionMeasures, which improve water status and floodmanagement. Links and
exchanges between sectorsmust be enhanced to better integrate different policies,
communicate on the benefits of approaches to restore rivers, mobilize partners from other
sectors, and exchange on the work and tools available in different countries to facilitate
river restorationmeasures.
Local communities should also increase their involvement in ecosystem restoration
projects. Access tomonitoring results and knowledge of water and aquatic environments
should be extended to reach a broad section of the public. The keys to successful water
policy include sound knowledge and easy access to data and information on the status and
evolution of water resources, ecosystems and their uses.
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THEHANDBOOK FORMANAGEMENT
ANDRESTORATIONOF AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS INRIVERAND LAKE BASINS
8 CONCLUSION
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