Climate & Environment

Water Allocation

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Definition

Water allocation is the determination of how much water from a source may be used, by whom, for what purpose and when. It is governed through systems of water rights, permits, quotas or market trading, and increasingly incorporates environmental flows to sustain ecosystems.

References

Source organisationSupporting reference

This reference provides supporting context for how “Water Allocation” is defined and used.

www.oecd.orgBulk import source

Source imported for editorial provenance.

Overview

How it is used

Basin authorities set allocation plans and seasonal announcements; water markets allow trading of allocations; sustainability standards assess whether corporate water use respects allocation limits in stressed basins.

Why it matters

Over-allocation degrades rivers and aquifers and creates conflict among users. Sound allocation is the foundation of water security and equitable, sustainable basin management.