Because the Martimes are relatively rich in water in proportion to the population, water-related problems were for a long time handled on a pieaemeal basis. However, development pressures of the sixties and seventies have increased the need for an overall coordinated water management approach. Current efforts are aimed at establishing water as a resource with intrinsic value, rather than a free good. On this basis, realistic pricing policies, improved operation of water withdrawal systems, optimisation of hydro-potential and protection of surface and groundwater sources can be pursued.
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