Strategic Partnership for Sustainable Management of Aquatic Resources

Several global environmental assessments indicate that the aquatic ecosystems have been profoundly influenced by human activities. Nonetheless, aquatic resources continue to be managed on a sectoral basis with virtually no integration between sectors or with other environmental management strategies. This paper reviews human impact on aquatic resources and argues for a strategic partnership (SP) of stakeholders for sustainable management of aquatic resources. SP integrates the objectives of ecosystem-based and co/community-based approach to management. It consists of a resources inventory plan designed to improve the status of the ecosystem, and a long-term strategy integrating scientific research with conservation action. The suitability of SP for aquatic resources management is illustrated with two examples. Successful implementation of SP however requires the establishment of relevant administrative structure and legal environment at all scales of governance.