ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book explores the importance of considering water as an economic good, not only because of the large investments required by the water sector, but also due to water s pervasive effects throughout the economy as a whole. It focuses on the macro-economic integrated analysis of hydrology (MEIAH) decision support system and details the water resource model, highlighting the engineering and hydrological concepts behind it. The book describes in detail the methodology developed in this study, emphasizing the innovation of incorporating the results from a water resource allocation system into an input-output table. It describes the policy implications of the MEIAH system for Morocco, through the presentation of different options, which range from sustaining the environment, to implementing agricultural reforms and encouraging international trade.
