The Ecology of Water Security

Abstract

Water is an essential component of all ecosystems, not just aquatic systems. The current concept of water security consists of multiple potentially competing objectives which could put humans against ecosystems. The definition balances the availability or provision of water and the management of water-related risks for both anthropogenic users and environment (also a water user). Along the two axes of supply and risk management, there are two further potential areas for conflict between humans and environment, those being what constitutes suitable quality and quantity of water. Balancing this multidimensional complex of objectives poses a significant challenge to water managers around the world. The author in this article argue that there are and will continue to be opportunities to optimize both the environmental and human aspects of water security; however, there are also times and places where this may be more challenging.