The role of mountains in providing the indispensible water resources for municipal and industrial water supply, irrigation, hydropower production and other environmental services is well known and unquestioned (e.g. Barnett et al. 2005; EEA 2009; Viviroli 2003, 2007, 2010).
In Europe in particular, the Alps, with their seemingly vast water resources, are of immeasurable importance for the economic and cultural development of not only the Alpine Arc, but also the lowlands and major urban areas far beyond.
Viviroli et al. (2010) conclude that there is a strong need to promote research and exchange of knowledge with practitioners. These recommendations have thus been developed in collaboration with water management experts across the Alps in a trans-disciplinary and participatory approach.