Invited Speaker
Prof. Angela Kallhoff
Professor of Ethics with Special Emphasis on Applied Ethics, University of Vienna, AustriaSpeech Title: Value-Based Water Resource Management
Abstract: Water is not just an important resource, but without water, human beings and other living beings cannot exist. In order to develop an approach to the distribution and conservation of water that resonates with the importance of water for life, this contribution discusses value-sensitive water management. According to an eco-services approach to water, water resources such as rivers and water reservoirs have a range of distinct values, measurable as eco-services and as elements in value systems. After lining out this diversity of values, including a range of cultural values associated with water sources, it is possible to discuss principles of water management that help to resolve conflicts over water resources by integrating a value-perspective. Overall, this presentation raises awareness for water as a valuable resource, but also for the limits of commodification of that resource and for prudent ways to manage water in order to reduce conflict (Kallhoff 2017). However, this approach is limited to water reservoirs and not applicable to the seas and to other water systems.