May 2005
Oliver M. Brandes, Keith Ferguson, Michael M’Gonigle and Calvin Sandborn

Water is the strategic resource of the 21st century - Canada stands “at a watershed” in freshwater management. Attitudes, institutions and policies are changing, but an outdated supply-oriented paradigm still dominates. At a Watershed focuses on the enabling environment that ensures holistic water management is institutionally embedded. Ultimately, the goal is “ecological governance,” where natural ecosystem processes are carefully considered at all levels of decision making, up and down the watershed. Developing water sustainability requires a shift that embeds ecosystem integrity in the fundamental basis of all planning. This approach limits the expansion of supply-oriented infrastructure, addresses cumulative effects at the watershed, and unleashes the full potential of conservation-oriented innovation. The strength of this report lies in the rich mosaic of experiences and examples from around the world where theory and concept inform practice.

May 2004
Oliver M. Brandes and Tony Maas

This report focuses on identifying benefits as well as the barriers to water Demand Side Management in Canada. The interconnected and interrelated nature of barriers creates a gridlock that resists the adoption of a comprehensive approach to demand management for urban water in Canada. Understanding the interrelationships of these barriers is the first step towards developing a Demand Side Management strategy for urban water provision. The report explains why a comprehensive and long-term approach to Demand Side Management is necessary and provides action plans for all levels of government and other stakeholders for implementation.

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