Course Compendium 2 – IWRM and Sustainable Development

This course provides Master’s students in Hydrogeology with a comprehensive and integrated vision of contemporary water issues, based on the principles of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) and sustainable development.

It explores the role of water in natural and human systems, the transition from sectoral to integrated management, the concepts of ecological and water footprints, and the impacts of population growth and human activities on water resources. Particular attention is given to groundwater, its strategic importance, vulnerability, and sustainable management.

The course also addresses water needs and uses, water quality and sanitation, ecosystem protection, water governance, and the links between water, energy, and sustainable development goals (SDGs). Students are introduced to indicators and tools used to assess sustainability and support decision-making.

By the end of the course, students will be able to understand the complexity of water systems, integrate environmental and socio-economic dimensions, and contribute to the design of sustainable water management strategies.