The Factor Four concept in Eco-Hydrology – is it applicable?

The problems of shortages of water and its quality call for urgent attention. In the last 20 years the focus of environmental policy shifted from economical to biological dimensions. The Factor Four concept of von Weizäcker was originally conceived for solving economic issues of overexploited natural resources. Implementation of an array of technological innovations should lead to sustainability. With increased knowledge about the function of ecosystems this concept needs expansion whereby services rendered by ecosystems are linked to economic activities of humans. Doubling efforts to “protect” water resources will lead to at least twofold increase in its “productivity”. In an “ecohydrological approach”, proper land management improves water resources, which enhances biodiversity and finally protects the environment. The conflict between protection versus use of ecosystems can then be largely resolved.