Since the industrial revolution, human activities have been directly affecting the environment causing rapid
change. In order to address the high demand that demographic densification puts on water resources and to control
contamination, in the last few decades a new concept has arisen known as integrated water resources management
(IWRM). IWRM has been developed for many years and it has been mentionedin many international forums.
However, the term ‘integrated’ was formally added into the concept after the Dublin and Rio Summits. According to
the Technical Committee of the Global Water Partnership, IWRM is a process that promotes the coordinated
development and management of water, land and related resources, in order to maximize the resultant economic and
social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability ofvital ecosystems. To complement
this definition, the United Nations Environmental Program UNEP adds, IWRM is necessary to address increasing
water scarcity and pollution. Methods include water conservation and reuse, water harvesting, and waste
management. An appropriate mix of legislation, pricing policies and enforcement measures is essential to optimize
water conservation and protection.