WATER RESOURCE ADMINISTRATION

Abstract

This academic article aims to review, analyze, and synthesize the paradigm evolution of water resources management concepts, as well as to propose an Integrated Adaptive Water Management (IAWM) framework to address water resource challenges in the twenty-first century. The study employs a literature review and synthesis approach based on academic articles, books, research reports, and publications from organizations related to water resources management. The findings indicate that water resources management concepts have continuously evolved from engineering-based approaches that focus on controlling water resources toward integrated management and socio-ecological systems approaches that emphasize resilience, adaptation, and governance. The literature synthesis reveals several key findings, including a shift in the perception of water resources from a controllable resource to a complex socio-ecological system; a transformation in the role of stakeholders from centralized management to multi-stakeholder participation; and a change in water management objectives from improving water-use efficiency to enhancing resilience, equity, and sustainability within the system. In addition, the study identifies and synthesizes nine key components of water resources management, which are interconnected within a dynamic systems framework. The analysis further demonstrates that although Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) has been widely recognized and accepted, its implementation continues to face institutional and coordination constraints, as well as challenges associated with addressing uncertainties arising from climate change. Therefore, this article proposes the Integrated Adaptive Water Management (IAWM) framework, which is derived from the synthesis of knowledge on IWRM, system resilience, and water governance. The proposed framework aims to strengthen water security, promote equity, and support the long-term sustainability of water resource systems.