Water, Cultural Diversity and Global Environmental Change: Emerging Trends, Sustainable Futures?

Organized by UNESCO International Hydrological Programme (UNESCO-IHP), Research Institute for Humanity and Nature (RIHN), and UNU-IAS Traditional Knowledge Initiative

Objectives of the symposium

The objective of this international symposium is to encourage global recognition of, and respect for, cultural diversity in water resources management, in order to facilitate collaborative actions for sustainability of water and cultures. The symposium is part of a series of activities that have been implemented on the topic, most notably public sessions held in the past four World Water Forums. The symposium will bring together an international and interdisciplinary community of scholars, scientists, advocates and policy makers to explore various issues, such as: "water cultures" and the culture of water; how traditional ways of life are threatened due to the loss of water resources, and, how traditional knowledge might contribute towards future water security; how water resource development and management has undermined the viability of culturally diverse groups, and, how water resource management can strengthen biodiversity and cultural diversity; and, alternative futures: strategic recommendations for incorporating sociocultural perspectives into water resource management systems, addressing rights and entitlements to water, and stewardship principles and responsibilities.

Simultaneous translation (Japanese/ English) provided

Admission is free however advanced registration is required (limit of 150 people) - see details below

Date: 1 - 3 October 2009. Optional excursion on 4 Oct to visit Kifune Shrine and sake brewery

Time: 9:00am - 5:30pm (approximate times only) **Also see updated programme**

Location: Lecture Hall, Research Institute for Humanity and Nature (RIHN): 457-4, Kamigamo Motoyama, Kyoto, Japan 603-8047

City/ Country: Kyoto, Japan