Application of Hybrid Membrane Processes Coupling Separation and Biological or Chemical Reaction in Advanced Wastewater Treatment

Urban areas face increasing environmental challenges from rapid urbanization, climate change and anthropogenic pressures. These disrupt natural hydrological cycles, leading to critical problems such as rise and fall groundwater levels with a series of chained consequences. Our study applies a critical urban zone approach (Bucharest district) to start within a framework of an accurate urban groundwater balance to analyze biophysical and chemical processes in the urban environment, focusing on the Circus Lake Park in Bucharest. The site presents a complex setting shaped by decades of anthropogenic alterations, including extensive excavation, infrastructure development, and impervious surfaces that disrupt natural hydrological processes. Climate-induced changes in precipitation patterns combined with the infrastructure modifications exacerbate these challenges, reducing groundwater recharge and lowering the lake levels. By incorporating alternative water resource (AWR) solutions, our study aims to establish sustainable water management strategies tailored to the existing urban ecosystem.The methodology integrates field experiments, laboratory analysis, and hydrological modeling to address water scarcity and pollution challenges. Infiltration tests using several methods quantified the hydraulic conductivity of heterogeneous anthropogenic urban unsaturated zone. Chemical and biological analyses of water samples from rainfall, and street runoff assessed parameters such as dissolved oxygen, heavy metals, and nutrient concentrations. An experimental filtration system comprising sand, gravel, and activated charcoal layers was designed and tested to evaluate its efficacy in treating stormwater. Hydrological and hydrogeological models were developed to simulate rainfall, runoff, and infiltration processes, enabling the assessment of aquifer recharge potential.The results underscore the value of the critical zone approach in addressing the multifaceted challenges of urban water management. The findings reveal the effectiveness of integrating scientific methodologies with practical interventions to mitigate the impacts of urbanization and climate change. Nature-based solutions, such as stormwater filtration and aquifer recharge, demonstrate their effectiveness in adapting urban ecosystems to these pressures. Circus Lake Park serves as a replicable model, providing a blueprint for cities around the world to implement sustainable water management strategies. Beyond technical interventions, this study emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and stakeholder involvement. Local authorities, water operators and community organizations were actively involved, ensuring that the proposed solutions align with social, economic and environmental priorities. This collaborative approach fosters wider acceptance and ensures long-term sustainability of interventions.The research highlights the critical importance of integrating diverse scientific, technical, and social perspectives to advance urban sustainability frameworks. By linking theoretical insights with practical applications, this study demonstrates how critical zone processes can contribute to adaptive and efficient water resource management in urban contexts. Future research should focus on scaling these strategies and evaluating their long-term ecological and social impacts to further inform global urban resilience efforts.

The rapid urbanization and population growth in India have led to increased pressure on water resources in urban centers. As one of the fastest-growing cities in the country, Jaipur is facing significant challenges in meeting the water demands of its expanding population. Therefore, it is crucial to estimate the future population and water demand of Jaipur city to develop effective strategies for sustainable water management. This case study aims to estimate the future population and water demand of Jaipur city using a comprehensive analysis of demographic and water consumption trends. The study utilizes a combination of statistical methods, demographic projections, and water demand modeling techniques to provide a holistic understanding of the city's future water requirements. The results of this case study provide valuable insights into the future population growth and water demand trends of Jaipur city. The findings can assist urban planners, policymakers, and water resource managers in formulating effective strategies for sustainable water management and infrastructure development. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating future population growth projections and water demand estimations into long-term urban planning processes. This case study contributes to the understanding of the challenges posed by population growth and urbanization on water resources in India, using Jaipur city as a specific example. The estimation of future population and water demand serves as a foundation for developing proactive measures to ensure adequate water supply and sustainable urban development in the face of increasing demand and limited resources

Biochar has been put forward as a potential technology that could help achieve sustainable water management in agriculture through its ability to increase water holding capacity in soils. Despite this opportunity, there are still a limited number of studies, especially in vulnerable regions like the tropics, quantifying the impacts of biochar on soil water storage and characterizing the impacts of biochar additions on plant water composition. To address this critical gap, we present a case study using stable water isotopes and hydrometric data from melon production in tropical agriculture to explore the hydrological impacts of biochar as a soil amendment. Results from our 10-week growing season experiment in Costa Rica under drip irrigation demonstrated an average increase in volumetric soil moisture content of about 10% with an average moisture content of 25.4 cm3 cm−3 versus 23.1 cm3 cm−3, respectively, for biochar amended plots compared with control plots. Further, there was a reduction in the variability of soil matric potential for biochar amended plots compared with control plots. Our isotopic investigation demonstrated that for both biochar and control plots, there was a consistent increase (or enrichment) in isotopic composition for plant materials moving from the roots, where the average δ18O was −8.1‰ and the average δ2H was −58.5‰ across all plots and samples, up through the leaves, where the average δ18O was 4.3‰ and the average δ2H was 0.1‰ across all plots and samples. However, as there was no discernible difference in isotopic composition for plant water samples when comparing across biochar and control plots, we find that biochar did not alter the composition of water found in the melon plant material, indicating that biochar and plants are not competing for the same water sources. In addition, and through the holistic lens of sustainability, biochar additions allowed locally sourced feedstock carbon to be directly sequestered into the soil while improving soil water availability without jeopardizing production for the melon crop. Given that most of the expansion and intensification of global agricultural production over the next several decades will take place in the tropics and that the variability of tropical water cycling is expected to increase due to climate change, biochar amendments could offer a pathway forward towards sustainable tropical agricultural water management.

Since the early 1990s there has been a proliferation of calls for integrated water resource management as a strategy for sustainable water management. While literatures have examined the extent to which institutions can adapt to management defined by hydrological zones, the significance of other sociotechnical spaces to sustainable water management has been overlooked in these debates. In this paper, having demonstrated the hybridity of the hydrological cycle, we argue that more attention needs to be given to the interaction between regional, network, and fluid spatialities in sustainable water management. More specifically, we examine the fluid work of intermediaries in between regional and network spaces in the translation of regional strategies into local practice. We conclude by looking at the implications of understanding the relationship between regions, networks, and fluids for water governance specifically and environmental governance more generally.

Sociohydrology, an interdisciplinary field exploring the dynamic interactions between human and water systems, has emerged as a critical area of study to address the growing complexity of water management challenges in the Anthropocene. Transdisciplinary practices in sociohydrology extend beyond traditional academic boundaries, integrating diverse knowledge systems, stakeholder perspectives, and real-world practices. These approaches bridge the gap between science and society, enabling the co-creation of solutions that are socially equitable, environmentally sustainable, and contextually relevant. This study explores the transformative potential of transdisciplinary approaches in sociohydrology, emphasizing collaborative governance, stakeholder engagement, and sustainable water management. Drawing on an extensive review of literature and following PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses), the research highlights diverse applications of transdisciplinary methodologies in water management, ranging from integrating citizen science frameworks to fostering adaptive strategies for climate resilience. Case studies spanning the Katari River Basin in Bolivia to community-led monitoring in Australia's Great Barrier Reef illustrate how integrating ecological, social, and economic dimensions can address complex hydrological challenges. These practices underscore the importance of co-producing knowledge among researchers, policymakers, and communities, thus bridging gaps between scientific inquiry and real-world implementation. By synthesizing insights from multi-scalar analyses, the paper offers a framework for designing adaptive, equitable, and sustainable water management strategies. The findings advocate for institutional reforms and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen collaborative governance and propose a roadmap for applying transdisciplinary methodologies to global water crises. This research contributes to the evolving discourse on sociohydrology, emphasizing the need for integrated systems thinking and participatory processes to achieve long-term water security.

Sustainable water management is critical for airports as they consume substantial volumes of water to maintain their infrastructure and operations. Airports also generate large volumes of surface and waste waters. The aim of this study was to examine Copenhagen Airport’s sustainable water management strategies and systems from 2006 to 2016. The study used a longitudinal qualitative research design. The annual water consumption at Copenhagen Airport has risen from 2006 to 2016 in line with the increased passenger volumes and aircraft movements. Drinking water is sourced from the Taarnby and Dragør municipal water works. Non-potable water is used wherever possible and is sourced from a local remedial drilling. Copenhagen Airport uses two separate sewer systems for handling surface and wastewater. These waters are not discharged to same system due to their different nature. To mitigate environmental risks and impacts on soil, water, and local communities; the quality of drinking, ground, and surface water are regularly monitored. The airport has implemented various water saving initiatives, such as, an aquifer thermal energy system, to reduce water consumption. The strategies, systems, and the water-saving initiatives have successfully underpinned Copenhagen Airport’s sustainable water management.

Water scarcity and ineffective water utilisation in agriculture provide considerable obstacles to global food security and environmental sustainability. This study investigates the amalgamation of wastewater treatment and IoT-enabled automated irrigation systems as pioneering approaches for sustainable water management in agriculture. Farmers can diminish reliance on freshwater by treating and reusing wastewater, while IoT-enabled irrigation systems enhance water utilisation via real-time monitoring, data analysis, and precise control. This study assesses the technical, economic, and environmental advantages of integrating various technologies, emphasising their capacity to improve water efficiency, crop productivity, and resource conservation. Case studies and experimental findings illustrate the efficacy of IoT-enabled devices in minimising water waste and enhancing irrigation scheduling. The report also examines the obstacles to using these technologies, including as expenses, infrastructure, and farmer uptake. The results highlight the revolutionary potential of combining wastewater treatment with IoT-based irrigation to attain sustainable agricultural practices, enhance water conservation, and facilitate the shift towards a circular economy in agriculture. This study offers practical insights for policymakers, agricultural stakeholders, and technology developers to further scalable and sustainable water management strategies.

Towards sustainable water management in an arid agricultural region: A multi-level multi-objective stochastic approach

This comprehensive review explores the landscape of Urban Water Management in the United States, focusing on sustainable practices aimed at addressing the challenges posed by rapid urbanization and climate change. With urban areas facing increasing water stress, this study aims to identify, analyze, and evaluate a range of sustainable practices implemented across the country. The review encompasses diverse aspects of Urban Water Management, including water efficiency measures, green infrastructure initiatives, climate change resilience strategies, and pollution mitigation efforts. In examining water efficiency measures, the study investigates technological innovations and policy frameworks that have contributed to optimizing water use in urban settings. Additionally, the role of green infrastructure is explored, emphasizing its benefits and applications through case studies of successful implementations, shedding light on how nature-based solutions can enhance water sustainability. The review delves into the critical dimension of climate change resilience in urban water systems, analyzing the impacts of climate change on water resources and exploring adaptation and mitigation strategies. Infrastructure improvements and integrated planning approaches are examined as essential components in building resilient urban water systems. Addressing pollution mitigation, the study focuses on stormwater management and wastewater treatment. Best management practices and regulatory measures are scrutinized to understand how urban areas are effectively managing and treating water to mitigate pollution and protect water quality. Furthermore, the review highlights the significance of integrated water resources management as a holistic approach to addressing water challenges in urban contexts. Stakeholder engagement and cross-sectoral coordination are emphasized as integral elements in implementing sustainable and comprehensive water management strategies. Through case studies of successful urban water management projects, the review extracts valuable lessons and insights for future implementations. The challenges and opportunities in the current landscape are explored, providing a nuanced understanding of the barriers to sustainable practices and identifying emerging opportunities. This review synthesizes key findings, implications, and recommendations for advancing sustainable urban water management practices in the United States. The insights generated contribute to the ongoing dialogue on effective water management strategies in the face of evolving urban and environmental dynamics.
 Keywords: Urban Water Management, Sustainable Practices, Water Efficiency, Climate Change, Resilience, United States, Pollution Mitigation, Water Infrastructure.

Water resources management based on green economy is becoming more and more relevant in the context of changing climate and growing environmental problems. The President of Kazakhstan K.-J. K. Tokayev assigned tasks at the national level to improve the efficiency of use and protection of the country's water resources. Effective strategies for sustainable water management as well as technological innovations are crucial to mitigate the effects of water scarcity worldwide. In addition, financing of green technologies is an important factor. In this study, we analysed the correlation between green finance and sustainable water management outcomes on the example of wastewater treatment in Kazakhstan. The results can be applied in developing strategies to minimise the impact of risks on water, health and environmental infrastructure, as well as in studying the impact of environmental invest-ments. The costs of water supply, precisely the collection, treatment and disposal of waste, pollution elimination activities provide various economic, environmental and social benefits, which makes them a crucial aspect of sustainable development.

Nepal, with its diverse topography spanning the Tarai Hills and the Himalayas faces unique challenges in water governance. The federal structure of Nepal, comprising 7 provinces and 753 local levels, plays a crucial role in implementing strategies for sustainable water management and achieving Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG 6) targets. Water resources in Nepal stimulate the economy, supporting agriculture, hydropower, and fostering sustainability. This study focuses on the status, progress, and challenges in providing access to clean water, sanitation, and hygiene in alignment with SDG 6 in Nepal. Despite notable advancements, with 95.47% of households in 2021 having sanitation facilities, only 56.97% relied on tap/piped water. Challenges include inadequate water supply systems, climate-induced disasters, and coordination gaps among the three tiers of the Government. Enhancing governance mechanisms and aligning initiatives with SDG 6 are crucial strategies for achieving both national and global targets and involve focusing on stakeholder collaboration to ensure equitable water and sanitation access, as outlined in the Constitution of Nepal 2015 (Articles 30, 35) and in governance structures (Schedules 5–9). Implementing national water policies, establishing regulatory bodies, and promoting community-driven management are essential steps. Additionally, addressing institutional fragmentation and fostering hydro-diplomatic relations with neighbouring countries are vital. Enhanced financial support and capacity-building efforts are also necessary. By prioritizing sustainable water management, Nepal can achieve its SDG 6 goals by 2030.

The gap between water supply and demand is increasing in several urban clusters of the world. This study uses the water evaluation and planning model to assess the water supply and demand dynamics in one of the large metropolitan regions of the Chennai hydrological basin. The primary water supply sources, including reservoirs, groundwater, inter-basin transfer, and desalination plants, were integrated into the model to simulate the current and future water demand and supply scenario. Three rainfall scenarios (excess, normal, and deficit) were utilized to assess their impacts on water supply. The study highlights the increase in unmet demand for normal and deficit rainfall scenarios. In response, various mitigation options were explored, including increasing groundwater recharge, reservoir capacity enhancement, water treatment plant expansion, additional storage, and utilization of water stored in rock quarries. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to develop sustainable water management strategies in the Chennai Basin.

Centralized water reuse system with multiple applications in urban areas: Lessons from China’s experience

ABSTRACTMilpa Alta, located southeast of Mexico City, is a key region for environmental sustainability due to its volcanic soil, biodiversity, and critical role in aquifer recharge, which supports the city's water supply. However, rapid urbanization has severely impacted the area, causing reduced vegetation cover, increased runoff, and diminished groundwater recharge, which intensify flooding, soil erosion, and water scarcity. This study aims to identify optimal sites for managed aquifer recharge (MAR) structures in Milpa Alta through a multi‐criteria analysis incorporating criteria such as topography, land use, proximity to urban areas, and drainage networks. Uniquely, hydraulic simulations of flood scenarios were integrated into the analysis to improve the precision of site selection. Geographic information systems (GIS) were used to assess and combine these criteria, providing a spatial evaluation of suitability. Results indicate that the central and northern regions of Milpa Alta, particularly around San Francisco Tecoxpa and San Antonio Tecómitl, are most suitable for MAR implementation due to their permeable soils, gentle slopes, and proximity to agricultural lands and drainage networks. These MAR structures can enhance groundwater recharge and mitigate flood risks during extreme rainfall events, with the potential to capture up to 300,000 m3 of surface runoff during a single high‐intensity storm event. Despite its strengths, the study acknowledges limitations such as the absence of detailed water quality analyses and the need for sensitivity testing of the criteria weighting. This research provides an innovative approach to MAR site selection by integrating flood simulations, offering a replicable model for similar regions. Successful implementation of MAR in Milpa Alta requires addressing water quality concerns, engaging stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks. The findings emphasize MAR's potential to balance urbanization pressures with sustainable water management and flood mitigation strategies in Mexico City's rapidly developing areas.

Water shortage is one of the most difficult issues confronting people all over the world. Rapid urbanization and water scarcity necessitate immediate action to improve sustainable water management without jeopardizing global socioeconomic growth. Thus, conventional water treatments are implemented for the purpose of eradicating various pollutants in wastewater. Traditional water treatment methods, whether in water treatment facilities or reverse osmosis (RO) plants, have run across a number of roadblocks that have significantly hampered their performance and efficiency. Integrating the membrane process with other remediation technologies in a hybrid process is a novel technique to improve contaminant extraction efficiency for our target streams. This process is termed the hybrid membrane process (HMP). On this aspect, this paper would highlight the benefits of using the HMP compared to conventional methodologies and their applications conducted in various sectors around the world. Some case studies are also reviewed illustrating its cost analysis in comparison to conventional methodologies accentuating the merits of using HMPs.