Water policy - using freshwater wisely
We use rivers, lakes, streams, wetlands,
canals, ponds and ditches for water supply, waste disposal,
electricity generation, navigation, fisheries, agriculture and
recreation. We need to ensure that these uses do not threaten
the vast range of freshwater and wetland biodiversity we have in
Wales.
Why do we care about freshwaters and wetlands?
Wise use of water is essential for sustainable
development. Wales has a stunning array of freshwater and
wetland areas that form important habitats and are home to many
important species. Plentiful water of the right quality is
essential for their continuing survival.
In the future, managing water resources will be a critical part
of our response to climate change. CCW is involved in a
number of key initiatives to ensure that Wales' freshwaters are
managed sustainably.
Policy, legislation and guidance for freshwater and
wetlands
There are a number of key pieces of legislation and policy that
have great potential to benefit freshwater biodiversity and
wetlands. CCW works with and advises a wide range of partners
to ensure that biodiversity conservation and environmental
protection are integrated into legislation and policies created to
manage water.
There are three key work areas for CCW staff:
- the Water Framework Directive
- Flood risk management
- Diffuse pollution - water and land management