IFC expert: Pricing and alternative sources key to water management

Effective water management requires proper pricing strategies and the use of alternative water sources, said Nicola Saporiti, Senior Investment Officer at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), Report informs.

Speaking at the panel discussion "Innovative approaches in managing alternative water sources" during the 2nd International Water Management Exhibition and Conference – Baku Water Week, Saporiti noted that prioritizing water use differs in theory and practice.

"In theory, priorities are: first, population; then environment, industry, and agriculture. But in practice, agricultural and industrial users often pollute water, making it harder for cities to access clean water, which complicates overall water management," he explained.

He added that while water quotas should be allocated to each user, pricing is crucial to encourage efficient use:

"If industry pays more for water, it will use less. For households and urban users, the pricing should ensure the sustainability of water services. Without proper pricing, sustainable management becomes impossible."

Saporiti emphasized that increasing reliance on alternative water sources and implementing sound pricing policies will be key to efficient water management in the future.