Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) offers a systematic approach to address the sustainable development, allocation and monitoring of water resources for Pacific island countries. The key concept of IWRM is that it provides a framework to integrate societal, economic and environmental considerations in water resource management. It recognises that all water use is interdependent and should be managed in an integrated manner.
The Republic of Nauru is an isolated, uplifted limestone island located 41 km south of the equator at 0o 32' S latitude and 166o 56' E longitude. Small island nations in the Pacific, such as Nauru, have critical water supply problems. Nauru is a permeable island with very little surface runoff, no rivers or reservoirs, and potable water is collected in rainwater tanks from the roofs of domestic and commercial buildings. Water for non-potable uses is obtained from domestic bores at houses around the island. There are four small desalination plants on the island, of which two are operating and supply Menen Hotel and the refugee centre.
