A modified GALDIT-NUTS index to assess Favignana Island aquifer vulnerability

Abstract

The present research aims to assess the role of geogenic and anthropogenic activities in coastal aquifer vulnerability using a modified index. To achieve the objective of the current research, a GIS-based GALDIT-NUTS index has been developed for aquifer vulnerability assessment on Favignana Island, Italy. The GALDIT-NUTS index has been developed by expanding the GALDIT index using three significant parameters of the DRASTIC index and adding the landuse of the area. The GALDITS-NUTS index and the different index weights were validated using a hierarchical analytical process, vulnerability rating (obtained by this application), and field observed aquifer electrical conductivity data. The GALDIT-NUTS showed that approximately 66% of the study area was covered with high to maximum vulnerability zones and followed by medium vulnerability zones (32% of the study area). The present research outcome suggested that the GALDIT-NUTS index helps assess Island aquifer vulnerability because the index considers both human and seawater intrusion impacts.