Introduction

The 2014 Sustainable Irrigation conference will provide a unique forum for multidisciplinary discussion. The meeting aims to generate debate and ideas about how to improve irrigation and drainage systems, making them more environmentally, socially and economically sustainable.

Irrigation, as the biggest water user in most regions of the world is facing significant challenges in balancing social, economic and environmental needs for water.

The purpose of the conference is to provide examples of how irrigation and drainage can become more sustainable, while acknowledging that the concept of sustainability is a goal that continues to change as our knowledge of the biophysical realities alter. In that sense moving towards sustainability is an ever evolving journey.

Prospective authors should focus on the implications of their findings for improving sustainability, whether this be drainage, irrigation technologies, economic modelling, governance studies for irrigation management, reuse of water or any other aspects. Papers are invited under the topics listed which gives an indication of the conference range. Papers on topics not in the list will also be welcome provided they fall within the conference objectives.