For millennia, we have perceived water as an abundant and easily accessible resource. But water shortages are fast becoming a persistent reality for all nations, rich and poor. If water is so valuable and scarce, then why is it so poorly managed?

Edward Barbier argues that the current water crisis is as much a failure of water management as it is a result of scarcity. Outdated governance structures and institutions, combined with continual under-pricing, have perpetuated the overuse and undervaluation of water and have disincentivized much-needed technological innovation.

Barbier draws on evidence from across the globe to develop a comprehensive and convincing account of the causes, solutions and potential consequences of the impending water crisis. Only through developing efficient, fair and sustainable institutions, incentives and innovations can we adequately manage water in a world of growing water scarcity. As optimistic as it is cautionary, The Water Paradox outlines the necessary policy and management steps for averting this crisis.