Virtual Water: Real Challenges Remain

Abstract

"The concept of virtual water – developed by the author of the following article and 2008 Stockholm Water Prize Laureate Prof. John Anthony Allan – will continue to be relevant for a long time. Looking forward, Prof. Allan envisions two main directions where the improved application of the virtual water concept can head. First, a number of key communities, including the water users and policy-makers in developing economies, are yet to adopt the concept. Second, the concept has been foundational in the development of a number of rapidly evolving ideas and tools. The continuing evolution and impact of related concepts, such as the water footprint and the complex linkages between water and energy, will strongly affect the future."