Forecasting water demand and supply in South China

China is one of the 13 countries that have been ranked as having the poorest water resources in the world. Since 2000, more than 100 cities in China have experienced water crises. These crises have occurred not only in the arid regions of northern China, but also in humid zones, such as the coastal zone of South China. To determine why these crises are occurring, the authors examine water uses and management approaches in the Pearl River Delta Economic Zone - one of the most dynamic economic areas not only in China but in the world. The authors explore the demands placed on the water supply by agriculture, industry, and residential users as well as the increase in domestic sewage and provide several recommendations regarding water uses and management that will foster continued economic development while protecting limited water resources.