The sustainability of water resources is a critical issue facing society over the coming decades. Water resources are affected by changes not only in climate but also in population, economic growth, technological change, and other socioeconomic factors. In addition, they serve a dual purpose; water resources are critical to both human society and natural ecosystems. The objective of this course is to first provide students will explore various sustainable strategies for integrated water resources management in water scarce environments. Students will also be taught water conservation techniques for different environments (natural and man-made). Case studies will be highlighted throughout the course to illustrate real world, practical challenges faced by water managers and how to implement water conservation practices.

• Explain the importance of water in the world and the reasons for its sustainable conservation and management
• Students will think critically and use basic quantitative and management skills to answer questions related to sustainable water development
• Identify the connections between environmental inputs (i.e. natural resources) and outputs (i.e. energy), and their effects on the natural environment
• Explain the importance of water conservation and methods in semi-arid and arid environments
• Learn residential, domestic, landscape, industrial and agricultural water conservation practices

On completion of this module, students are expected to be able to:

• Assess impacts on water resources from human activities
• Develop sustainable management plans for at different scales (home, city etc.)
• Implement water conservation practices at different scales and for different environments

6 credits

1. Jones, J.A.A. Water Sustainability: A Global Perspective. Routledge pp. 464. (2010)
2. Vickers, A. Handbook of Water Use and Conservation. Waterplow Press pp. 446 (2010)