Argentina - Water Resources Management : Policy Elements for Sustainable Development in the 21st Century, Main Report

Abstract

The study reviews the challenges water resources management faces, and the opportunities for policy formulation towards sustainable development in Argentina, where regardless of prudent public finances management, water resources management remain disproportionately backward compared to regional, and international best practices. Hence, within a frame of reference on the country's population, institutions, and legal framework, the study examines the current, accelerated degradation of water quality, where arsenic and nitrate pollution are found in groundwater, a main source of drinking water supply in some rural areas, aggravated by the uncontrolled dumping of raw wastewater in urban areas. The uses, and management of drinking water, and sewage are analyzed, revealing eighty-one percent of urban populations are connected to drinking water networks, and only thirty-eight percent to sewer networks. Upon review of the irrigation sector, which accounts for seventy percent of all extractions of water consumption uses, the study shows very low levels of efficiency, compared to similar experiences in other countries. Integrated and modern water management is suggested, and recommendations include: preservation of groundwater resources; promotion of policies, and actions to control surface water pollution; increased coverage to reduce toxicity risks in drinking water; and, modernization of sanitation, and irrigation systems.