"Preface" [2011] ELECD 1017; in Kenney, S. Douglas; Wilkinson, Robert (eds), "The Water–Energy Nexus in the American West" (Edward Elgar Publishing, 2011)

Book Title: The Water–Energy Nexus in the American West

Editor(s): Kenney, S. Douglas; Wilkinson, Robert

Publisher: Edward Elgar Publishing

ISBN (hard cover): 9781849809368

Section Title: Preface

Number of pages: 2

Extract:

Preface
The water­energy nexus raises a set of public policy questions that go far
beyond water and energy. Economic vitality and management of scarce
and precious resources in the West, including its magnificent rivers and
landscapes, are at stake. For this reason, it is important that the public and
decision-makers have a solid foundation of science, economic analysis,
and law in order to develop policy strategies. The present work seeks to
make a contribution to the body of knowledge and understanding regard-
ing water, energy, and the links between the two in the American West.
The contributions to this book indicate that we have choices that allow us
to avoid unnecessary harm in the development and management of water
and energy systems to meet our needs. Indeed, if thoughtfully designed,
new technologies and approaches can help restore damaged environments
and provide a range of benefits.
This book approaches the subject in several ways. In Part I (Chapters
1 and 2), the basic methodologies and approaches to analysis of energy
inputs to water systems, and conversely, water requirements of different
energy systems, are outlined. Opportunities to improve efficiencies in
water and energy systems can provide significant economic, social, and
environmental benefits. Policy strategies for both water and energy
management can and should take advantage of these opportunities and
multiple benefits. This introduction is followed by a discussion of envi-
ronmental issues relating to water management and energy systems with a
particular focus on impacts to fish.
Water for energy ...