| This topic considers the use of catchments as units for implementing the ecosystem approach, as well as some of the main principles driving this approach. These include using integrated management, moving from short term fixes to a more sustainable strategy, and considering the knock-on effects to the system by any intervention. Ultimately this approach relies on a more holistic view of ecosystems. |
| One of the major issues still under consideration is the use of catchments as ecosystem boundaries. This appears to be a logical approach as impacts to a river system are influenced by activities throughout the entire catchment, however uncertainty about this approach still exists. For example, catchment boundaries rarely coincide with local, regional or international boundaries of administration leading to difficulties in organisation and competence across the whole catchment. The ecosystem approach aims to promote more sustainable river systems that operate within their own limits thus reducing the need for expensive short-term fixes. |
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