Water Economics

Water is vital to social and economic development whilst both arable land and water are scarce. Managing water is highly capital intensive, and capital is also scarce. Simultaneously, there are environmental consequences to any intervention in the water cycle whilst the economy depends on the environment. Therefore, for an integrated catchment, economic analyses must be undertaken on the analysis of the impacts of the proposed scheme upon the catchment as a whole.

This textbook provides a concise introduction to economic approaches and mathematical methods for the study of water allocation and distribution problems. Written in an accessible and straightforward style, it discusses and analyzes central issues in integrated water resource management, water tariffs, water markets, and transboundary water management.

This book covers topics on scientific aspects,
governance, and best management practices. The book shows that good governance, policies for effective conservation and public participation are important for water use. There are a lot of examples of best management practices all over the world - for effective and efficient use of water, community-based programs in North America, Asia and Africa. The book provides two case studies.