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Water

Guiding principle IWRM – Water resources management for the metropolitan region of Rhine-Main

The project is developing a model for sustainable water resource management in the Rhine-Main region, involving all relevant stakeholders.

With the help of principles that combine different societal claims of utilization and prevent ecological damage, an integrated water resources management (IWRM) aims to contribute to a sustainable handling of the resource water. Within the project, a guiding principle shall be developed that comprises conceptual foundations and instruments for such an IWRM in the region of Rhine-Main.

Research Approach

The guiding principle will be developed during a dialogue process of one and a half years. To that end, fields of action, key topics and case studies will be identified on behalf of the State of Hesse and under the lead of COOPERATIVE Infrastruktur und Umwelt, Kassel. This will then be the basis for formulating specific measures and recommendations for the metropolitan region of Rhine-Main. The topical areas include sustainable resource protection and management, economical  water use as well an efficient organization and water supply in the region. Particularly in the realm of economical  water use, ISOE will have an advisory function.

Background

Climate change and regional growth are inducing changes in the metropolitan region of Rhine-Main as well confronting the current water resources management with new challenges. In order to address these evolving demands, the Hessian Ministry of the Environment, Climate Protection, Agriculture and Consumer Protection (HMUKLV) has initiated a process for developing guiding principles with the aim to establish the basis for suitable steering instruments for a sustainable water resources management. The process includes all actors from municipalities, towns and districts as well as from the areas of water supply and disposal, from initiatives, associations, as well as representatives from regional and state governments. The aim is to develop a framework for future actions for all parties involved on the basis of water availability and user interests in order to attain a sustainable handling of water.

Partners

  • team ewen, Darmstadt
  • ahu AG, Aachen
  • COOPERATIVE Infrastruktur und Umwelt, Kassel
Contact:

PD Dr. Thomas Kluge

Associate Research Scientist Go to Profile

Project Infos

Started:
Expires:
Research Units:
Water
Focustopic 2025

Water —

What impact does climate change have on our water resources? Is water scarcity also a threat in Germany? What challenges does the water industry face?

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