This volume is a source of information on the state of the world's freshwater resources, offering comprehensive and accessible analysis of the most important topics in water resource policy worldwide. It reviews major trends and events and provides up-to-date data on water resources and their use. This edition includes insightful analysis of a wide range of water issues followed by overview chapters on key topics of current interest. It offers tables of water data, and examines the causes and impacts of water overuse and degradation as well as institutions involved in governing water resources. It also establishes strategies and standards by which we can begin to set water policy on a more rational equitable and sustainable course. Offering current data and analysis on freshwater resources worldwide, this work aims to be an authoritative reference for specialists and nonspecialists alike, including policy makers, water resources specialists and planners, as wells as students and scholars in environmental policy, geography, hydrology, ecology and related fields.