Brisbane Declaration on Environmental Flows (2007)

International consensus statement on the critical importance of environmental flows for sustaining freshwater ecosystems and the human livelihoods that depend on them. Issued at the 10th International River Symposium and International Environmental Flows Conference in Brisbane, Australia, September 2007. Endorsed by over 750 delegates from more than 50 countries. Defines environmental flows as 'the quantity, timing, and quality of freshwater flows and levels necessary to sustain aquatic ecosystems which, in turn, support human cultures, economies, sustainable livelihoods, and well-being.' Links environmental flows to the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment, Ramsar Convention, Convention on Biological Diversity, and Sustainable Development Goals (particularly SDG 6.4). Calls for governments to commit to environmental flow protection in national water policies and transboundary agreements.