Environmental protection measures in China's water resources development

Water resources and hydropower projects have multiple benefits but the construction of a large dam will modify the water and sediment regime of a river. Furthermore, the impounding of a reservoir, resettlement, and the project construction itself will have negative environmental impacts. Therefore, in planning the comprehensive development of a river basin and during the various stages of design, construction and operation of the projects, the requirement to maintain a balance with regards to the ecological system and the environment should be fully taken into account. The construction of water resources development projects must be harmonized with sustainable social and economical development, and adequate ecological and environmental protection.