The Water Quality of World River Basins selectively summarizes data contributed by countries participating in the GEMS/WATER Programme over the period 1976-90. The book also includes information gathered from many other sources. It summarizes the results of analysis and interpretation for 82 major river basins around the world. Some of these river basins are located in highly populated and industrialized areas where human impacts can be clearly seen. Other watersheds represent more pristine areas that are currently not under extensive human stress.