UNEP Support for Achieving the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) 2005 Target: A Contribution by UNEP to the 2005 Water Resources Alliance Initiative and the Thirteenth Session of the Commission on Sustainable Development

Against a background of rapid population growth, industrialization, urbanization and environmental degradation, UNEP is participating in the ongoing global initiatives and processes on Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), especially with respect to the environmentally sound management of all types of water resources: surface water, ground water, rain water, water in coastal and marine environments, and water in river basins and aquifers. UNEP also participates in other water-related initiatives and activities, such as Water and Small Islands Developing States, Water and Dams, desalination of water, water for mega-cities, and meeting water demand challenges worldwide.