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Activities Report 1999 July Newsletter

Theme from MNS World Environment Day: Water – Precious and Finite  
     With the global population growth and rapid economic development, much of the world’s natural resources are being depleted at an unsustainable rate. One of these resources is WATER. Previously seen as an infinite renewable resource, the situation is now reversed: WATER is a Precious and Finite resource, which requires urgent attention to ensure sustainable use.
      The Malaysian Nature Society has consistently advocated a comprehensive range of measures to be introduced to ensure sustainable water resources management. Whilst various measures have been announced recently, an integrated approach is needed. The emphasis in general has been on supply management. This is doubtless important but it is equally important to target demand man-agement. Additional supply sources are now being planned and implemented independently of a concerted effort to manage demand. Experience in a neighbouring country has shown that effective demand management will moderate and even reduce the need for additional supply sources.

      It is imperative that an integrated approach encompasses these key issues:

      MNS welcomes the establishment of the National Water Council, which can play a leading role in integrated water resources management for the nation. MNS will play its part to provide input to the Council in planning effective policies and measures to achieve sustainable use of water resources. This is in addition to our present efforts through public awareness programmes and Environmental Education modules, which the Society conducts regularly.
      Hopefully, with everyone in every level of society playing a part, the next War will never be fought over WATER.

Kuala Lumpur, 5 June 1999


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Created on 30th June 1999