How far have management practices come in 'working with the river'? COMMENT

The philosophy of 'working with nature' and 'working with the river' is increasingly embedded in global management practice. However, what does this mean? Has real progress been made in operationalizing what is known, how scientists and practitioners work and how rivers are conceptualized as integral parts of landscapes, culture and society? The first sections of this commentary outline what this philosophy means to us (the authors) and briefly summarize the evolution of associated concepts and principles in recent decades. In the final section, we comment on what we believe needs to be done to 'work with the river' in practice. We are communicating to both river scientists and practitioners as a collective when we ask: Will we be brave enough to hold the course in the face of many global challenges, be ready to respond when called upon, and commit to creation of diverse, inclusive and open access communities of practice in geoethical programmes that 'work with the river'?

Automated summary

The philosophy of 'working with nature' and 'working with the river' is becoming more prevalent in global management practices. The commentary discusses the importance of operationalizing this philosophy and emphasizes the need for continuous efforts, courage to face global challenges, and the promotion of diverse, inclusive, and open practice communities.