Water problems and opportunities in the hydrological sciences in China

This paper first summarizes the characteristics and distribution of water resources in China and then addresses the three major types of water problems from both historical and geographical perspectives, Major water problems, i.e. floods, droughts and water shortages, and water pollution, have tremendous impacts on the economic development and social well being in China. Analyses of water problems in the context of natural causes and human influences lead to the discussion of the role of the hydrological sciences in sustainable management of water resources, with an example of the preliminary findings of a study of water resources renewability in the Yellow River basin. Finally, challenges and opportunities for hydrologists are highlighted to present a brief summary and prospect on the development of the hydrological sciences in China.