Part 1 Setting the scene Chapter 1 sets the scene, introduces the context of the assessment, and describes key concepts used throughout the assessment.

We face unprecedented challenges of water management-how to use water sustainably to respond to the increasing demand for agricultural products in many areas and how to find practical solutions where water use has exceeded sustainable limits. We need both more solutions and innovative ways of looking for them. This assessment starts with the premise that there are ways to ensure economic and social development while satisfying the increasing needs for safer and more sustainable agricultural practices.