The Paraná River Basin by Metcalfe, Chris D.; Collins, Pablo; Menone, Mirta L.;

Short description:

This book provides insight into the hydrology, ecosystem services and management of water resources in the Paraná River basin, including the importance of water to the socio-economic development of the countries within the watershed.

Long description:

This book provides insight into the hydrology, ecosystem services and management of water resources in the Paraná River basin, including the importance of water to the socio-economic development of the countries within the watershed.

Running through Brazil. Paraguay and Argentina, the Paraná River and its watershed is home to some of South America's major population centers as well as important ecosystems threatened by development. At the same time, the river is a major resource driving the economies of the nations within its boundaries. This volume examines the impacts of environmental degradation, and the tradeoffs between the energy sector and the maintenance of ecosystem services. In particular, it focuses on the threats from development to sensitive ecosystems within the basin and the challenges of transboundary management of water resources. In addition to presenting wider perspectives on water management, the volume specifically covers water infrastructure, aquatic ecosystems, water quality, geomorphological influences and the impact of climate change. Finally, by assessing each country's current status in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals this volume provides a timely analysis as national governments within the basin are becoming increasingly concerned about the sustainability of the freshwater ecosystems within the Paraná River basin.

This book will be of great interest to students and scholars of water and natural resource management, environmental policy, sustainable development and Latin American studies. It will also be relevant to water management professionals.

"Readable and accessible, especially for those with some background in water resources, the text of each chapter is supported by high-quality color figures and extensive references...This volume may serve as an excellent standalone resource for students interested in the socioecological dimensions of water and water resource management, or for professionals working in the basin or locations similar to it. For libraries, it offers good value given its breadth and general quality, and would make a particular contribution to collections seeking to expand their overall coverage of Latin America."

--Z. Albertson, Western Washington University, CHOICE Recommended

Table of Contents:

1. The Paraná River Basin and its Ecosystem Services  2. Water Resources: Status and Management Challenges  3. Geomorphological and Sedimentological Characteristics  4. Water Infrastructure  5. Ecosystems  6. Climate Change Impacts  7. Water Quality and Impacts of Development  8. Transboundary Cooperation  9. Meeting the Sustainable Development Goals for Water and Sanitation