The study presented experiences from river basins worldwide in controlling water pollution through nutrients (nitrogen, to be specific) and organic material. The authors had previously produced detailed reports on the physical, socio-economic and governance elements of eight river basins in Europe (Meuse, Danube, Rhine and Emån), North America (Colorado, Mississippi, Hudson-Mohawk) and Africa (Orange-Senqu). The policy insight report produced in this study synthesized findings from those reports, to draw insightful conclusions for Chinese policy makers on the lessons learned in these basins. This included an analysis of successful or failed actions and institutional set-ups to combat nutrient and organic pollution, represented by the parameters BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand), COD (Chemical Oxygen Demand), AN (ammonia nitrogen), and TN (total nitrogen).
