space
About UNEP
space
space
United Nations Environment Programme
Division of Technology, Industry and Economics
top image
space
space space space
space
space

Newsletter and Technical Publications
<Planning and Management of Lakes and Reservoirs:
An Integrated Approach to Eutrophication>


INTRODUCTION (suite)

Chapter 1 (ENVIRONMENTAL) describes the eutrophication, and defines both deleterious and beneficial impacts, as well as the demarcation between these two extremes, as lakes and reservoirs progressively change in response to nutrient loading derived from human activities in the associated watershed. In the discussion on the causes of eutrophication, land uses are defined, and the integration and interaction between environmental compartments are highlighted.

Chapter 2 (SOCIAL AND CULTURAL) consists of discussion on the major societies making up the global village, and the aspects of their culture which are non-negotiable and must be accepted within the context of a system for the management of lakes and reservoirs. The importance of the interaction of the cultures with water, and, in many cases, with each other, is emphasized. Traditional water uses, through which people developed their perception of water and water culture, are discussed.

Chapter 3 (POLICY, INSTITUTIONAL AND REGULATORY FRAMEWORK) contains discussion of the need for establishing managerial goals tailored to specific conditions in preventing the eutrophication of lakes and reservoirs. Models of institutional arrangements that have been successfully used are given, and the strength and weakness of each model is discussed to a degree, which would allow a rational selection of an appropriate model for any situation. Further, the role of regulation and enforcement and access to financial support, human resources and training programs for local people are discussed in this chapter.

Chapter 4 (PUBLIC AWARENESS AND EDUCATION) discusses the importance of satisfactory public involvement and commitment in the decision-making process of lake and reservoir management. Tools for raising public awareness, such as environmental education programs and public communication, are described. The importance of education in local issues of lake and reservoir management as an ongoing process, from early childhood and carrying on throughout adult life, is highlighted in this chapter.

Chapter 5 (ECONOMIC) discusses eutrophication resulting in the loss of economic benefits or loss of beneficial use of lakes and reservoirs. This chapter presents information on economic activities associated with the eutrophication and economic evaluation of the eutrophication, including descriptions of different valuation methodologies. The benefit-cost analysis is discussed as it is an important tool for evaluation of both deleterious and beneficial impacts of the eutrophication of lakes and reservoirs. Further, economic instruments for the prevention and control of eutrophication are described in this chapter.

Chapter 6 (TECHNICAL AND MANAGERIAL) describes technological solutions in the control of eutrophication and associated problems. Cost and procurement are considered, and details of available technologies, from modified natural systems to high-technology water treatment systems, are outlined in this chapter. However, cost-moderate solutions, which may better suit developing countries than costly high-technology treatment systems, are emphasized. The description of different solutions allows comparison of a standard set of attributes to enable sound selection of a single system or a mix of appropriate technologies. A review of techniques for remediation of sediments, which contribute to the eutrophication of lakes and reservoirs, and techniques for monitoring of water quality, are included in this chapter.

Chapter 7 (MANAGEMENT) discusses the state of lake and reservoir management globally by examining different management arrangements at local, national and international levels using selected cases as examples. By this, it illustrates management issues pertinent to specific conditions and how such issues are historically dynamic. Further, the need for management strategies adaptable to evolving management is discussed. A brief outline of restoration techniques, which can be used in the management of eutrophic lakes and reservoirs, is included in the chapter.

Chapter 8 (NEW APPROACH TO EUTROPHICATION CONTROL: IMPROVING MANAGEMENT CAPACITY) is a synthesis of the information provided in the above seven chapters. This chapter emphasizes the innovative aspects of the publication and a new integrative/multidisciplinary approach to the management of lakes and reservoirs in different parts of the world. Further, the most important issues to be considered in a new approach to the management of lakes and reservoirs are highlighted in this chapter.

Different reports, scientific papers and books, which discuss various aspects of the eutrophication of lakes and reservoirs and solutions of associated problems, have been published in the past. However, this publication outlines a new approach to water resources management, particularly eutrophication, emphasizing the need to integrate and solve simultaneously social, cultural, economic, and other associated problems considering at the same time the natural setting of the lake/reservoir and its environment. Further, the watershed ecosystem approach, which needs to be adapted in successful management strategies for water quality in lakes and reservoirs, is highlighted in the publication.

Previous page Table of ContentsTable of Contents Next page

  • Brochure
  • IETC Brochure


  • International Year of Forests
  • International Year of Forests


  • World Environment Day
  • ??????


  • UNEP Campaign
  • UNite to Combat Climate Change