There must be as many solutions as problems in the world's water situation. One of the first must reside in the articulation and acceptance of a universal environmental ethic. One that will teach us finally to value our natural world in general, and our water in particular.

Other more conventional solutions lie in the realms of better natural resource information systems and more integrated environmental planning.

New solutions, of increasing concern to international financing and aid agencies, are improved governance, public participation, and education.

Among the new solutions are some that are quite controversial; demand management - to reduce waste, and pricing - to change consumers perceptions of the value of water. Both are discussed in the pages ahead.