Author(s): Jacques Ganoulis
Linked Author(s): Jacques Ganoulis
Keywords: No Keywords
Abstract: The relationship between Water and Man is reflected in the way humans use water and apply the water resources management conceptual model. A historical review indicates that the Water-Man relationship has been continuously variable between two opposites: conflict and cooperation. In ancient times, nature and water were considered and respected as divinities. After the second industrial revolution (1870-1970), Man was felt to be able to dominate nature. The construction of the pharaonic Hoover Dam in 1935 is a milestone of the engineering capability to serve human interests by modifying and regulating nature. Since the late 20th century, the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) is promoted as the state-of-the-art model, integrating not only technical and economic but also environmental and social issues. However, the model implementation in the field is confronted with high environmental externalities, such as diffuse pollution, soil nitrification, especially under climate change, and severe environmental challenges, such as floods and droughts.
Year: 2022