Introduction

Aridity and water stress are global problems with far-reaching economic and social implications. Furthermore there is evidence that the world is enduring a serious water crisis. Its causes can be traced in the unsustainable management of water resources, and water scarcity from effects of the natural environment and increasing demand patterns. Given the numerous and increasing pressures on water resources, due to climatic conditions, over-exploitation of existing surface and ground waters, insufficient recharge due to diminishing precipitation, excessive water use by agricultural activities or tourism and conflicting interests between various users it is vital that effective legislation clearly address the problems and help secure these resources for future generations.