Diverging realities: how framing, values and water management are interwoven in the Albufera de Valencia wetland in Spain

ABSTRACT

The Albufera de Valencia is a coastal wetland in south-eastern Spain that has suffered from low water quality since the 1970s. This article explores two divergent framings or imaginaries of the Albufera as a hydrosocial territory. The first, the agro-economic waterscape framing, focuses on the economic and cultural importance of rice production. The second, the idyllic waterscape framing, emphasizes environmental values. The agro-economic waterscape frame is dominant in current water management. Stakeholders deploy highly diverging realities, and the political playing field is not level. Recognition and empowerment are the first steps towards more sustainable water management in the Albufera.

KEYWORDS:

• Albufera de Valencia
• wetland
• framing
• values
• water management
• hydrosocial territory
• Spain

Acknowledgements

We are deeply indebted to all our interviewees for sharing their knowledge, vision and feelings with us.

Notes

1. The Ramsar Convention is an intergovernmental treaty that provides a framework for conservation and wise use of wetlands and their resources.

2. Contested arenas include the planning of inter-basin water transfers, water allocation plans, construction of desalinization plants, and the need for stricter regulations and compliance in effluent treatment.