Written in a clear and accessible style, this introductory textbook explores the economics of water supply and consumption and shows how water policy can be adapted to achieve the goal of sustainable development. Informed by an evolutionary political economy perspective, the book draws on a substantial group of international case studies to illustrate the relevance of theory to real life. Ranging widely, the author considers the conservation of rivers, lakes, wetlands, estuaries and coastal waters; land drainage; flood control and coastal defense; dam projects; the costs of freshwater supply; water use by households, agriculture, and other sectors; and wastewater treatment and disposal. Introducing a topic of crucial importance to a wide range of disciplines, this concise yet comprehensive text will be invaluable for students in environmental studies, geography, and economics.