Dams and Development: A New Framework for Decision-Making

Dams generate about 19% of the world’s electricity and are responsible for about 30-40% of the world’s irrigated land. It is undeniable that the 45,000 large dams covering the Earth play a crucial role in helping communities produce food, generate energy, and control floods. How can we use dams while considering the people and natural resources that are affected adversely when we fundamentally alter rivers? This report examines the multifaceted debate on dams in order to inform decision makers on future development of water and energy resources.

International and regional decision makers may look to this document for guidance on integrating social, environmental, and economic considerations into water and energy policy. The guide examines the rights of those affected by dam planning and project cycles and offers suggestions for benefit sharing, resettlement, and compensation. It analyzes existing dams, examining energy-generation performance, irrigation services, environmental impact, and more. Also discussed are alternatives to dams that provide water and electricity services.

The World Commission on Dams has made an impressive attempt to organize this massive amount of information. The Executive Summary provides a clear-and-informative overview. To download the full report, visit the commission’s Web site.