Global Dimensions of Change in River Basins: Threats, Linkages and Adaptation

An important new insight in river basin research and management is that water in its various forms "operates" in complex social, ecological and economic sectors forming an interlinked system of a much larger scale than an individual river basin or large aquifer. This new awareness of interconnectivities has spawned the concept of the "global water system", which in return bears important implications for upcoming research. Focus will need to move beyond river basins to seek sustainable solutions within the context of the global water system. 

The aim of the conference is to review the state-of-the-art research, advance understanding and foster dialogue with professionals and policy makers concerning global aspects of river basins and their management.

Impact of global change on river basins

• Climate change impacts on river basins
• Impacts of large-scale land use patterns and demographic changes

Long-distance connectivities and linkages of river basins

• Connectivities and linkages between river basins and the earth system
• Connectivities and linkages within river basins
• Virtual water flows between river basins

The role of global governance in river basin management

• Impacts of national and international actors on river basin processes
• Influence of global and national governance on water resources in river basins