Consideration of Ecosystem Services and Function for Sustainable Water Use

Dear Colleagues,

Ecosystem services (ESs), as defined by the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MA) initiative of the United Nations in 2005, are all ecosystem derived human benefits, such as carbon storage, recreation, water supply, soil retention, water regulation, and soil accumulation services. Due to the strong influence of human-to-ecosystems interactions on the sustainability of ESs, the MA initiative defined humans as a component of natural systems, and furthermore recommended more research in this area. It was noted that a fully understanding of the hydrological components and processes, and the entire ecosystem is essential in maintaining hydrological services strength. In order to meet this goal, the Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) approach was drafted by the Department of Economic and Social Affairs of the United Nations (UNDESA) in 2007. At its core, the IWRM supports the coordination and development of water, and land related resource management methods, strategies, and approaches, and finally to find balanced solutions, which maximize economic and social benefits as well as considering the long term integrity of ESs. In terms of efficiency, equity, and sustainability, the IWRM is a global recognized approach. A report conducted in 2011 by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP-DHI) and International Institute of Sustainable Development (IISD) found that by including ESs into the IWRM structure, a greater range of long-term benefits—socially, economically, and environmentally—would result. The report has prompted a great deal of research in recent years, extending the theory behind and applicability of both ES and IWRM concepts. The proposed Special Issue of the symposium will showcase recent studies in the field of ecosystem IWRM approaches, with the goal of increasing research and investment into IWRM process investigation.

Prof. Dr. Yu-Pin Lin
Dr. Dirk Schmeller
Dr. Wei-Cheng Lo
Dr. Wan-Yu Lien
Guest Editors

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