Making the Most of the Water We Have

<P>Based on the 'soft path' approach to the energy sector, a transition is now under way to a soft path for water. This approach starts by ensuring that ecosystem needs for water are satisfied and then undertakes a radical approach to reducing human uses of water by economic and social incentives, including open decision-making, water markets and equitable pricing, and the application of super-efficient technology, all applied in ways that avoid jeopardizing quality of life. The soft path for water is therefore a management strategy that frees up water by curbing water waste. </P><P><EM>Making the Most of the Water We Have</EM> is the first to present and apply the water soft path approach. It has three aims: </P><UL><LI>to bring to a wider audience the concept and the potential of water soft paths</LI><LI>to demonstrate that soft path analysis is analytical and practical, and not just 'eco-dreaming'</LI><LI>to indicate that soft paths are not only conceptually attractive but that they can be made economically and politically feasible. </LI></UL><P>Includes a tool kit for planners and other practitioners. </P><P>Published with POLIS Project and Friends of the Earth</P>