A new article about applying the water soft path in an agricultural region of Canada, co-authored by Sheila Forsyth and POLIS' David B. Brooks, was published in the special, 40th anniversary issue of Water International (available online November 2011).
Abstract
The current study extends past work on water soft path analysis in breadth and in depth: in breadth by studying an area devoted to large-scale prairie agriculture, and in depth by adding direct interaction with water managers and citizens of the Pembina Valley Conservation District in the Province of Manitoba, Canada. The main conclusion from the study is that the region can continue to be a prosperous and attractive place in which to live and to farm for at least 30 years without a single additional drop of water.
Article Access
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A new article about the water soft path, co-authored by POLIS' David B. Brooks and Oliver M. Brandes, was published in the June 2011 issue of International Journal of Water Resources Development (available online April 21, 2011).
Abstract
The best way to achieve a sustainable future for fresh water is to develop decision-making processes, institutions, and technologies that emphasize both efficiency and conservation. These two terms are commonly treated as synonyms, but, respectively, they reflect anthropogenic and ecological bases for making decisions. Recognizing that both perspectives are valid, this article outlines a new approach to water planning and management called the water soft path. This approach differs fundamentally from conventional, supply-based approaches. The article reviews the transfer of the original soft path concept from energy to water, and summarizes the first applications of water soft path analytics to specific geographic areas: one urban area, one province, and one watershed in Canada. The article concludes with suggestions for further research, as well as steps to improve recognition of the water soft path as a planning tool that can move management and policies towards economic, ecological, and social sustainability.
Article Access
To download a copy of the full article, please click here.
Making the Most of Water We Have – The Soft Path Approach to Water Management London: Earthscan Books
Making the Most of Water We Have – The Soft Path Approach to Water Management London: Earthscan Books
Making the Most of Water We Have – The Soft Path Approach to Water Management London: Earthscan Books
Making the Most of Water We Have – The Soft Path Approach to Water Management London: Earthscan Books
Making the Most of Water We Have – The Soft Path Approach to Water Management London: Earthscan Books
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See the original article published in the Alternatives journal
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Dialogues, Canada West Foundation, 2(1):8, 2006. (I)(+)
Journal of Environmental Law & Practice, 16(1):79-97, 2005.
