Water resource management is a complex problem to which an economic approach can make valuable contributions. However, the basis offered by economic theory is not necessarily part of the list of tools acquired by decision makers, engineers, hydrologists and other natural scientists active in discussions on how to better manage water extraction and consumption.

In this sense, this research introduces in a didactic and systematic way the main economic concepts that can offer an additional lens for the reader interested in analyzing problems associated with the way that individuals in different contexts manage a scarce resource such as water.

Thus, it seeks to deepen the understanding and the possibilities of applying economic instruments to the management of water resources in the Brazilian context, especially in situations of water scarcity. From the perspective of public policy design and analysis, different economic instruments emerge as alternatives to promote the allocation and more efficient and sustainable use of water resources.

The bases for the content presented are extensively developed over three chapters with which it was investigated:

1. the theoretical relevance of the inclusion of economic instruments in the list of instruments for the management of water resources;
2. how other countries have been using water rights markets in their contexts; and finally,
3. how these instruments could be adopted in the Brazilian case.

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