International Commission on Large Dams
The International Commission on Large Dams, "International Commission On Large Dams ( ICOLD )" or "Commission Internationale des Grands barrages ( CIGB )", is an international non-governmental organization that provides a forum for the exchange of knowledge and experience in dams . The association, based in Paris , works to ensure that dams are built safely, efficiently, economically and without damaging the environment.
ICOLD was founded in 1928 and is represented in 101 countries around the world by national committees with around 7,000 members. Germany has been a member of ICOLD since 1931 with the German Dam Committee (DTK). The members of the national committees work as engineers, geologists and natural scientists in government or private organizations, in engineering offices, universities, laboratories and construction companies. The original goal was to stimulate progress in the planning, design, construction, operation and maintenance of large dams and associated structures. For this purpose, relevant knowledge and information were collected, processed and disseminated, and special technical questions were studied. Since the 1960s there have been new key issues such as dam safety, monitoring, safety analyzes for existing structures, aging of structures and environmental compatibility.
Other technical, economic and social topics were added later, such as cost-benefit analyzes, the use of international rivers, public relations and financing issues. ICOLD pursues its goals
- Technical committees, which deal with the problem areas mentioned and publish the knowledge gathered around the world in the form of "bulletins",
- Congresses every three years with the discussion of four general topics ("Questions"). For this purpose, 200 to 300 scientific and technology-oriented contributions are regularly submitted. In 2003 the congress took place in Montréal . In 2006 it was held in Barcelona and in 2009 in Brazil.
- Technical symposia
- Lecture events
- Workshops
ICOLD criterion
The International Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD / CIGB) maintains a list of large dams around the world that meet the ICOLD Large Dams Criterion .