Data and data-sharing: Key to transboundary water quality protection

A river basin must be viewed as a dynamic system governed by underlying flows, both physical and biological. The interrelationships of the processes are determined by their position in the longitudinal gradients of the catchment from headwaters to estuary. Industrial and urban developments impose changes on natural processes in this continuum, not necessarily at the point where they occur but throughout the course of the river. Information is needed on physical and biological components, as well as their properties such as the speed and turbidity of the water. A classification schema is suggested to relate materials carried by the water to their ecological roles. Pollution control, its process, costs and benefits are summarised. Information sharing is a sign of trust and leads to understanding, hence the importance of the NATO Workshop.