In Carabobo State, the urban and agricultural expansions are the main causes of watershed problems resulting from degradation of forests, deforestation and inadequate solid waste management. Since 2009, action has been taken to combat these developments through participatory public policies which focus on environmental education and sustainable development. The key to the success of the project has been extensive capacity building in combination with concrete management tools.
The Veluwe Randmeren lakes in the Netherlands were negatively affected by the discharge of phosphates and nitrates from agriculture and household use. Furthermore, increase in population pressure posed further challenges. To address these issues, a group consisting of national and local authorities undertook a project, which gradually increased the water quality. The case study demonstrates the importance of allowing integration among stakeholder groups.
Global Water Partnership-Caribbean (GWP-C) has steadily continued building awareness on the usefulness of rainwater harvesting and the importance of water conservation with the help of its Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) model which was developed in late 2010.
The Global Water Partnership–Caribbean (GWP-C) Water Climate and Development Programme (WACDEP) is aimed at building climate resilience in the water sector as a key part of sustainable regional and national development for economic growth and human security.
Toward water security and climate resilience
On 12-19 May 2013 the Republic of Armenia hosted 11th European Youth Parliament for Water on “Water Resource Management”.
In preparation for the new Water Law in Bulgaria, as well as the EU Water Framework Directive, the watershed council was set up as a pilot to test on-site effective and participatory approaches to river resource management in the Varbitsa River. The key lesson drawn is that participatory, open, citizen-friendly and bottom-up approaches are more efficient than top-down administrative approaches.
Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), the national supplier of water and sanitation services in Guyana
and long-standing partner of Global Water Partnership-Caribbean (GWP-C) decided to focus its participation at the 2011 International Building Expo on educating thousands of Guyanese about the benefits of rainwater harvesting as a means of water conservation.
The Climate and Development Knowledge Network (CDKN) aims to help decision-makers in developing countries design and deliver climate compatible development. CDKN does this by providing demand-led research and technical assistance, and channelling the best available knowledge on climate change and development to support policy processes at the country level.
With the introduction of IWRM, South Africa has shifted the design and implementation of water management to local institutions. This has created a demand for innovative methods for local stakeholders’ participation. Action was taken to introduce the participatory process Companion Modelling that is based on the use of simulation models and role playing games. Consequently, this case study illustrates new methods and tools that facilitate dialogue and improve decision-making skills of local stakeholders.