Utilization and protection of water resources in the Qinghai-Tibet plateau
青藏高原水资源的保护与利用

The total quantity of water resources in the Qinghai-Tibet plateau is sufficient. However, the water ecology is becoming progressively deteriorated with the over- and irrational exploitation. Therefore, how to utilize and protect the water resources of the Qinghai-Tibet plateau attracts a lot of attentions. In this paper, the quantity and the distribution of water resources including rivers, lakes, glaciers and wetland, as well as current utilization and protection status in the Qinghai-Tibet plateau are analyzed. It is found that the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has abundant water resources, but the distribution of water resources is very concentrated, and therefore, it is difficult to exploit and use the water resources. Moreover, the problems of the river's interception and water contamination are increasingly become serious and important. In this regard, the paper recommends that in order to ensure sustainable use of water resources of the region, conservation of primary ecosystem should be addressed. In addition, water resources should be used efficiently and utilization and protection measures should be area focused such as those for core areas, areas around and extension areas should be highlighted.