Proper Water Management Research Articles

Green Choices: The Environmental Impact of Consumption Habits

Abstract Ecological footprint is an important indicator used to measure the impact of human activities on ecosystems. This measure reflects how people consume natural resources, the waste they generate, and the state of biodiversity. In modern times, reducing the ecological footprint is an important issue for protecting ecosystems and ensuring sustainable development. The first aspect of the ecological footprint is the efficient use of natural resources. Proper management of water and energy aims to minimize the waste of these resources. The use of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, helps reduce carbon emissions. This approach not only preserves the health of ecosystems, but also meets people's energy needs in a more sustainable way. The second important issue is waste management. Reducing waste in production processes, promoting recycling and recirculation of used materials contributes to reducing the environmental footprint. Each individual can help this process by making small changes in their daily life; for example, reducing the use of plastic and choosing more environmentally friendly products. Biodiversity conservation is also an important part of the ecological footprint. The health of ecosystems is related not only to the availability of natural resources, but also to the diversity of flora and fauna. Implementation of conservation projects to protect rare and endangered species ensures the sustainability of biological diversity. This also affects the strengthening of the relationship between people and ecosystems. Combating climate change is another important step in reducing our ecological footprint. Applying strategic approaches to reduce the carbon footprint is one of the most important tasks facing modern society. It also includes strategies for adapting to the effects of climate change. The active participation of the society in these issues makes it possible to achieve more effective results at the global level.

Introducing Saffron and a few medicinal and high value plants for small farms and water deficit conditions of northern New Mexico

This document reviews the potential of cultivating saffron and other high-value medicinal and aromatic plants such as lavender, rosemary, thyme, chamomile, and Damask rose on small farms in northern New Mexico, particularly under water deficit conditions. Medicinal and aromatic plants, rich in secondary metabolites, are crucial to various industries including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food. With an increasing global market for herbal products and a rising interest in traditional medicine, these plants offer economic benefits and sustainability for small-scale farmers. Northern New Mexico's diverse climate and soil conditions are suitable for growing a wide range of these plants, which are more lucrative and adaptable to dryland farming compared to traditional crops. Saffron (Crocus sativus), the most expensive herb globally, thrives in arid and semi-arid conditions and requires minimal resources. Its cultivation can enhance farm profitability through the integration of summer vegetable production. Lavender (Lavandula spp.), another high-value crop, is well-suited for the region and offers multiple uses in essential oils and personal care products. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) and thyme (Thymus vulgaris) are also highlighted for their drought tolerance and medicinal properties. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) and Damask rose (Rosa damascena) are noted for their medicinal uses and potential in commercial production. The document underscores the importance of proper soil and water management, organic farming practices, and the role of secondary metabolites in enhancing crop quality under stressful conditions. Intercropping and the use of farm residues for soil conservation are also discussed. The review concludes that these high-value crops can diversify farm income, improve land use efficiency, and offer sustainable agricultural solutions for water-scarce regions in northern New Mexico.

Prediction of Physico-Chemical Parameters of Surface Waters Using Autoregressive Moving Average Models: A Case Study of Kis-Balaton Water Protection System, Hungary

In this work, the authors provide a case study of time series regression techniques for water quality forecasting. With the constant striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), the need for sensitive and reliable water management tools has become critical. Continuous online surface water quality monitoring systems that record time series data about surface water parameters are essential for the supervision of water conditions and proper water management practices. The time series data obtained from these systems can be used to develop mathematical models for the prediction of the temporal evolution of water quality parameters. Using these mathematical models, predictions can be made about future trends in water quality to pinpoint irregular behaviours in measured data and identify the presence of anomalous events. We compared the performance of regression models with different structures for the forecasting of water parameters by utilizing a data set collected from the Kis-Balaton Water Protection System (KBWPS) wetland region of Hungary over an observation period of eleven months as a case study. In our study, autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) regression models with different structures have been compared based on forecasting performance. Using the resulting models, trends of the oxygen saturation, pH level, electrical conductivity, and redox potential of the water could be accurately forecast (validation data residual standard deviation between 0.09 and 20.8) while in the case of turbidity, only averages of future values could be predicted (validation data residual standard deviation of 56.3).

Rethinking Urban Water Management Through Drivers-Pressures-States-Impacts-Responses Framework Application in Chennai, India

Cities suffering water scarcity are projected to increase in the following decades. However, the application of standardized indicator frameworks for assessing urban water resource management problems is on an early stage. India is expected to have the highest urban population facing water scarcity in the world by 2050. In this study, the authors assess how the Drivers-Pressures-States-Impacts-Responses framework, a causal framework adopted by the European Environment Agency, can contribute to evaluate water management challenges in cities and apply it to Chennai, India´s fourth-largest urban agglomeration. The framework proved to be a helpful tool for the evaluation of water management challenges in cities by disentangling relationships between environmental indicators and structuring dispersed data that allows a better understanding for policymakers. The main drivers identified in Chennai were population growth and economic development which generated impacts such as loss of aquatic ecosystems, low water table, low water quality, and reduction of biodiversity and human health. As a response, better urban planning, projects for new water infrastructure, and water bodies restoration have been implemented. Nevertheless, Chennai keeps facing difficulties to achieve proper water management. The severe hit of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Indian economy and its future management will be key for achievements related to water management.

WATER QUALITY ASSESSMENT AND STATUS OF PHYTO- AND ZOO PLANKTON OF HIMALAYAN BHAGIRATHI RIVER IN UTTARKASHI, UTTARAKHAND (INDIA)

Rivers are important source of fresh water which is important for the sustenance and welfare of the society. The present study deals with the assessment of water quality parameters and with the population of phyto- and zoo-plankton of Himalayan Bhagirathi river in Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand (India). The samples were collected from the study area during summer, monsoon, and winter seasons for water quality and phyto- and zoo-plankton analysis. The air temperature, depth temperature, pH, total alkalinity, total dissolved solids (TDS), dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity, free CO2, electric conductivity (EC), biological oxygen demand (BOD) and total hardness were determined. The study revealed that DO was maximum in winter (12.35 ± 0.25 mg L-1) and minimum in June to September (9.75 ± 0.25 mg L-1). The Bhagirathi water contained maximum DO in colder month, followed by a gradual decrease to its lowest value during June to September. BOD, an important indicator of pollution status of a water body, was high during summer perhaps due to low discharge at river. BOD was high in monsoon (4.4 ± 0.14 mg L-1) and low in winter (1.5 ± 0.14 mg L-1). The study revealed low river flow during winter. Bacillariophyceae was maximum (442 units L-1) in February and minimum (18 units L-1) in July. Chlorophyceae was maximum (80 units L-1) in January and minimum (6 units L-1) in August, while Myxophyceaewas maximum (34 units L-1) in February and minimum in June and Xanthophyceae was not recorded at this site. The maximum number of zooplankton genera was observed during winter and minimum in rainy season. The study showed that there is an urgent need to have proper water management in rainy and summer seasons so as to restore the water quality of this river.

Optimization of rural environment through drainage system modernization: analysis of investment feasibility indicator in the modernization of drainage ditches on former agricultural lands

The benefits of installing pipes and drainage manholes, as well as covering open drainage ditches in built-up areas, have been listed in the report. A cost-effectiveness indicator for the investment, taking into account proprietary weighting coefficients, has been presented, which can be used as a formal argument determining the need for modernization of existing solutions in built-up areas. The indicator serves as an objective tool in the decision-making process at the municipal level. Modernization involving the installation of pipes and covering ditches, which previously served agricultural purposes, leads to an improvement in spatial order in a given area and also contributes to the protection of the natural environment through proper water management in former agricultural areas

Comparative Analysis of Drought Effects on the Soil Moisture Level and Penetration Resistance in Conventional and Non-Conventional Tillage Systems in Maize Production

The period of extreme weather anomalies in recent years has challenged farmers, and this has encouraged greater adaptability in farming practices. In the last decade, conventional tillage systems have been complemented by more biologically based cropping systems. The research evaluated the impact of drought on soil physical parameters in maize production by testing different conventional and non-conventional tillage systems to ensure optimal soil physical parameters. In the analysis of the prevailing weather conditions, rainfall values were divided into two parts, the pre-growing season and the growing season. We studied different climatic seasons. In 2021, the soil moisture content in the upper shallow 15 cm soil layer during the sowing period in April in the case of conventional tillage was significantly lower than in reduced tillage, conservation tillage and strip tillage. The most significant difference was measured between conventional and conservation tillage, with a difference of 11.25 v/v%. The 2022 crop year was extremely dry. In June, the highest moisture value in the soil was measured in the case of strip tillage with a value of 21.64 v/v%, which was more than 60% higher than in the case of conventional and conservation tillage. In conventional tillage, a very pronounced compacted layer was observed in the lower part of the ploughed layer. This zone reached a compaction of 6.9 MPa between 28 and 34 cm, which is agronomically harmful. No compacted soil layer was found in the experiment site under conservation tillage. In the severe drought year of 2022, only the strip-till system provided the proper water management conditions for the maize stand.

Pelatihan Peningkatan PHBS dan Pengelolaan Air Siap Konsumsi pada Masyarakat Wilayah RW 006, Kelurahan Tanjung Duren Selatan

Water is crucial for human survival, serving both consumption needs and daily activities. However, water contamination often occurs when it is not managed and stored properly. Contaminated drinking water can pose health risks, causing various digestive diseases and even death, especially in children. Therefore, the management and storage of water require special attention. Indonesian communities, especially those in the RW 006, Tanjung Duren Selatan, are still limited in gathering clean water without proper water management for it to be made suitable for consumption. In response to this concern, a program was implemented to enhance awareness and empower the residents of RW 006, Tanjung Duren Selatan, focusing on improving environmental sanitation and the effective management of safe drinking water. The activities took place at the secretariat office of RW 006, Tanjung Duren Selatan, on Friday, November 10, 2023, from 08:30 to 10:15 AM. A total of 25 participants filled out attendance and completed pre-test questionnaires. Participants were then provided with education and training by the team on environmental sanitation, Community-Based Total Sanitation (STMB), proper management of household waste, and the handling of water intended for consumption. The post-test results showed an improvement in participants' knowledge and understanding regarding the enhancement of environmental sanitation and the management of water ready for consumption in households. It is hoped that participants will serve as links in communication and educators within the local community, ultimately contributing to improved sanitation and an enhanced quality of life.

Reduced Root Volume at Establishment, Canopy Growth and Fruit Production in ‘Lapins’/‘Colt’ and ‘Regina’/‘Gisela 12’ Sweet Cherry Trees

The success of establishing fruit orchards has traditionally been attributed to the vigor of the nursery plant used. This study aimed to evaluate the post-transplant survival, canopy growth and fruit productivity of two sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.) cultivars (‘Lapins’/‘Colt’ and ‘Regina’/‘Gisela 12’) with different radicular basal volumes of 100%, 50% and 25% and nursery plant types: (i) bare root (BR) or (ii) bagged (B). The initial stem diameter of the plants ranged from 12 to 19 mm, and their height ranged from 1.4 to 1.8 m. Plants grafted onto ‘Colt’ rootstock exhibited twice the initial root volume compared to those grafted onto ‘Gisela 12’. Evaluations were carried out in three commercial orchards during three seasons in the Central Valley of Chile. The results indicated that root volume and nursery type did not affect plant survival and productivity. For ‘Regina’/‘Gisela 12’, only the bag treatment resulted in less trunk cross-sectional area (TCSA) and shoot length, and for ‘Lapins’/‘Colt’, the BR25 treatment showed a lower initial TCSA than other treatments, although without a negative effect on yield. Hence, the presumption about the influence of root volume and plant type on the successful establishment of a sweet cherry on ‘Colt’ and ‘Gisela 12’ rootstock can be discarded. The survival, growth and precocity of the orchard depend more on post-planting conditions and water management than on the number or type of nursery plant roots. It is important to prioritize proper post-planting care and water management for optimal orchard health.

Cutaneous-Urinary Schistosomiasis in a Child: A Case Report at the Dermatology Hospital of Bamako

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease of human origin caused by flatworms. This condition affects millions of people in developing countries where it is endemic. In 2017, the WHO classified schistosomiasis as a neglected tropical disease (NTD), deserving particular attention due to its potential complications, including infertility. Several initiatives have been undertaken to eradicate this condition, among which regular administration of praziquantel (PZQ), an anthelminthic medication, to school-age children (and other high-risk groups) is the cornerstone of schistosomiasis control. Although the efficacy of PZQ against infections of a single schistosome species is well known, its efficacy against mixed-species infections is less understood, as are the reinfection patterns after treatment. We report a case in a child in Bamako. Patient was a 9-year-old student who presented with pruritic solid lesions on the abdomen that had been continuously evolving, gradually increasing in number and size. The child used water from the marigot for group amusements. Since schistosomes can survive for decades in the host’s bloodstream, they are clearly capable of evading host immune responses, and their ability depends on the properties of the tegument surface. This hypothesis is plausible in our child due to his previous baths in the marigot. This highlights the need for proper management of stagnant water in endemic countries. This observation serves as a warning to clinicians that any hematuria warrants a systematic dermatological examination to search for skin lesions.

Assessment of water quality and heavy metal contamination in ballast water: Implications for marine ecosystems and human health

The global menace of non-compliance with ballast water management poses a pressing environmental threat, as it facilitates the transfer of harmful organisms and sediment contaminants. This study investigates the environmental impact of ballast water discharged by ships, focusing on water quality and heavy metal concentrations. The release of ballast water, often containing elevated levels of heavy metals like mercury, lead, and cadmium, poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems. The research, involving water sample collection from ten different vessels across various countries, assesses physicochemical parameters and heavy metal concentrations. Results indicate variations in temperature, turbidity, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, and pH levels among samples. Turbidity values surpassing WHO limits suggest potential anthropogenic pollution. The study identifies significant differences in pH values, potentially influencing microbial populations. Total dissolved solids and total suspended solids values vary, affecting the distribution of potential pathogens. The results reveal varying total concentrations of heavy metals (mg/L) in the following decreasing order: SA>SE>SF>SB>SC>SD>SH>SI>SG>SJ(6.07 >4.95 > 2.07 > 1.59>0.24>1.22>0.09>0.04>0.03>0.01). The highest concentration of heavy metals is recorded for iron (SA= 5.78), zinc (mg/L) (SB = 1.36, SE = 1.30, and SF = 1.35) and lead (Pb) (SE = 2.39). The elevated iron levels in vessels from SA are potentially linked to corrosion processes. Cadmium, lead, and nickel were not detected, except for lead in the sample from SE. Copper concentrations were aligned with EU standards in the vessels. Proper ballast water management is vital for monitoring water qualities, preventing environmental spread of heavy metals, ensuring marine ecosystem health, and developing compliance strategies for ships docking in ports. Highlights Global shipping causes heavy metal pollution, affecting human and ecosystem health Physicochemical parameters variations suggest potential pollution and microbial impact Mercury, lead, and cadmium in ballast water (BW) pose threats to marine ecosystems Increased iron levels could be associated with corrosion processes Effective BW management is crucial for environmental conservation

Assessment of Physicochemical Quality and Challenges of Municipal Sewage Water in Manchalapur Village in the Karnataka, India

The present study was carried out on characterization of municipal sewage water tank of Manchalapur village near Raichur city in Karnataka. The water samples were collectedeight times from four different locations like inlet, outlet and water spreading area of the Manchalapur tank during the year 2018-2019 in monsoon and post monsoon season. The collected water samples were analyzed for the water quality parameters by using standard procedure. The results obtained were compared with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and Bureau of India Standards (IS 2296:1992) water quality requirements for irrigation. The results showed that pH (7.89, 8.54), Electrical Conductivity (1.41, 1.48 dSm-1), Total Dissolved Solids (929.63, 1031.56 mg L-1), Carbonate (2.15, 0.86 mg L-1), Bicarbonate (7.71,4.99 mg L-1), Nitrate (26.90, 34.09 mg L-1), Phosphate (9.85, 6.20 mg L-1), Calcium (3.38, 2.77 mg L-1), magnesium (5.16, 4.13 mg L-1), Sodium (0.85, 0.92 mg L-1), Biological Oxygen Demand (1396.88, 1252.31 mg L-1), Chemical Oxygen Demand (14480, 8573.0 mg L-1), Dissolved Oxygen (7.91, 8.02 mg L-1) and turbidity (13.33, 8.77 NTU) for monsoon and post monsoon respectively. All the water quality parameters were within the recommended range of irrigation standards except the parameters BOD, COD, DO and turbidity. The results could be applicable advice to farmers and agricultural researchers for proper management and use of tank water for agricultural purpose.

Agroforestry system on peatlands in Pulau Hanaut, Kotawaringin Timur: A win-win solution to preserve peatland functions

Agroforestry on peatlands in Pulau Hanaut sub-district of Kotawaringin Timur is an approach that combines agricultural crops with trees on peatlands. The location of this project is in Serambut and Babaung villages, Pulau Hanaut sub-district. Primary data were collected through Focus Group Discussions (FGD), interviews, and direct observation in the field, and secondary data were collected by studying the related documents that existed. All the data then were analyzed by qualitative descriptive analysis. This site has a peat depth of less than 50 cm and a maximum water table between -10 to -15 cm. Peatland is a unique ecosystem that requires specific considerations for agroforestry practices. Implementing proper water management techniques, such as controlled water levels and irrigation, can help maintain the hydrological balance. Tree species selection that are suitable for peatland conditions were chosen by the communities, such as fruit tree species, cashew nuts, and enrichment planting on the current coconut farm. In addition, fire prevention is also an important part of peatland management. Therefore, zero-burning and organic farming practices should be implemented. Implementing agroforestry on peatlands requires careful planning, considering the unique characteristics of peatland ecosystems, and the ecological, social, and economic aspects of the local community. Local stakeholders’ involvement in decision-making processes is highly recommended to ensure the success of agroforestry initiatives on peatlands in the sub-district, which is part of the Mentaya-Katingan Peat Hydrological Unit, Central Kalimantan.

Determination of Evapotranspiration and Crop Coefficients of Irrigated Legumes on Different Soil Textures Using the FAO56 Approach

Climates and locations specific crop coefficients (Kc) plays pivotal roles in effective water management and crop yield optimization. Research on Kc for many staple crops remains limited in many regions across Africa. This study examined the crop coefficients of two varieties of cowpea (Sampea 14 and Sampea 17) and a variety of soybean (TGX 1465-1D) across different soil textures for optimized water management and crop yield. This study ascertained the Kc of Sampea14 (V1), Sampea17 (V2), and TGX 1465-1D (V3) cultivated on sandy, sandy clay loam, and sandy loam soils, within Port Harcourt, Southern Nigeria. This formed a 3 by 3 factorial experiment in three replicates. Changes in soil water content and crops’ agronomic parameters were monitored regularly. Meteorological data were obtained from the National Aeronautic and Space Administration website and reference evapotranspiration were estimated from the meteorological data using the FAO Penman Monteith’s method. Kc were estimated from the actual crop water use and reference crop evapotranspiration using the FAO56 method. During the initial-growth stage, the average Kc for V1, V2, and V3 were computed as 0.55, 0.72, and 0.81, respectively. At the mid-growth stage, these coefficients increased to 1.48, 1.30, and 1.60 and at the late season, the average Kc were 0.80, 0.69, and 0.86, for the respective varieties. The findings from this study hold the potential to significantly contribute to proper water management practices in the studied area. The understanding of Kc for these specific legume varieties across different soil textures offers valuable insights for optimizing irrigation scheduling and ultimately enhancing crop yield and water productivity.

Assessment of Conflicts in Water Resources Management of Tobora Sub-catchment in Mara River Basin, Tanzania.

Water resources are essential for both human livelihood and environmental services. Demand for the resources has led to increasing water conflicts because of how water is managed and governed. Many developing countries like Tanzania experience conflicts based on competing water uses. This paper examines conflicts on various competing water uses in Tobora Sub-catchment of Mara River Basin in Tanzania. It analyses factors that contribute to water conflicts among water users. It further highlights conflicts resolution and mitigation measures that the basin can adopt for proper water management. The study used explanatory and descriptive research design using mixed methods approaches. Different types of data were collected using focused group discussions, household interviews and key informants interviews. Majority of the respondents mentioned water conflicts to be mainly caused by land scarcity associated with population growth and increased competing water uses among various water users. Additionally, conflicts were linked to politics whereby politicians allowed water users to conduct economic activities 60m within water sources, which contradicts the water policy. Conflicts between farmers and herders were more evident due to competing water uses for irrigation and livestock keeping. Water conflicts were resolved through by-laws and laws adherence, mediation, resource use guidelines, public awareness campaigns, land use plans to demarcate farming and grazing land, legal land ownership rights and customary laws.

Comparing modern and traditional modeling methods for predicting soil moisture in IoT-based irrigation systems

Proper water management is crucial for agriculture, as its irrigation systems can waste approximately 60% of water. Using IoT for irrigation based on soil moisture can help reduce waste. This study used multidimensional time series modeling to predict soil moisture using two years of data on a US farm, including factors such as soil moisture, temperature, and weather. The models assessed were machine learning algorithms like Extreme Gradient Boosting and Random Forests, Deep Learning's Spectral Temporal Graph Neural Network (StemGNN), and Vector Autoregression as a reference model. Random Forest was the most efficient and stable model. Furthermore, the spectral temporal graph neural network could not outperform the reference model. Comparing Random Forest with univariate algorithms like Naive, Exponential Smoothing, and Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) showed univariate's better performance in 9 of 10 datasets, with ARIMA being best in 8. A substantial disparity is observed when considering the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) metric. ARIMA yields an MAPE of 0.052, while StemGNN reports 0.127 as the major difference. ARIMA achieves a MAPE of 0.046 for the minor difference, whereas StemGNN obtains 0.038. In the remaining eight datasets, ARIMA consistently outperforms StemGNN by at least 30%. In summary, modern methods could not beat the older methods in the study data sets.

Assessing Horton and Kostiakov models focused on estimating soil water infiltration

Water infiltration into the soil plays key role in proper soil and water conservation and management processes. The aim of the current study is to assess water behavior in soil infiltration processes by using the Horton and Kostiakov models. Double-ring infiltrometer method was used to determine water infiltration into the soil. In addition, soil samples were collected at depths of 0-10 cm, 10-20 cm and 20-30 cm, to determine soil moisture. Cumulative infiltration (IA) and instantaneous infiltration rates per time interval (TiR) were calculated. Equations describing the investigated phenomena were adjusted, according to the Horton and Kostiakov models. High water infiltration rate was observed at the beginning of the process, likely due to low moisture level at the top soil layer. Both models tend to underestimate the initial infiltration rate value. However, the Horton model tends to overestimate most of the instantaneous infiltration values up to 25 minutes. The Kostiakov model, on the other hand, tends to overestimate most of the instantaneous infiltration rate values after 80 minutes. Despite the large fluctuation observed in TiR values in the soil, the assessed models have satisfactorily described the infiltration behavior at the experimental site. Based on the heat map analysis, the Kostiakov model was the one capable of determining the infiltration values closest to actual one.

Assessment of surface water quality: Case study of Oued Fez catchment areas (Morocco)

Under sustainable development conditions, water quality and quantity play a crucial role in meeting basic human needs. To meet the growing demand for water, surface water quality management is an important aspect. Consequently, water quality must be monitored and assessed via the use of innovative techniques, such as water quality index (SEQ-Water).For that purpose, water quality of Oued Fez catchment areas was evaluated according to Moroccan water quality guidelines by using the weighted quality index (SEQ-Water), physicochemical parameters, trace elements and bacteriological characterization. Five Sites were chosen after a diagnosis based on different criteria such as activity and density of population. These sites were Amont oued Fez (S1), Oued Fez (S2), Oued Ljawahir (S3), Oued Tgat (S4) and Oued Ain Smen (S5). Physicochemical quality was determined by evaluating Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), total Kjeldhal nitrogen (NTK), suspended solids (SS), nitrates (NO3-), nitrites (NO2-), ammonium (NH4+), sulphates (SO42-), total phosphorus (TP) and trace elements (Cr, Cd, Cu, Ni, Co, Pb and Zn). Bacteriological analyses were carried out by testing enumeration of total coliforms (TC) and fecal coliforms (FC).Except Oued Ain Smen, physico-chemical parameters exceed by far the Moroccan standards of surface water quality. High concentrations of Se, Cd, Pb and As were detected. Fecal and total coliforms were also present at all sites, and varied from 1150 CF/100 mL to 100,000 CF/100 mL. All results were statistically validated with a p value < 0.05. Overall quality of the water sites assessed basing on the concept of the weight quality index, showed high pollution of the Oued Fez catchments. System based on the concept of the weighted quality index (SEQ-Water) is a suitable method to monitor point sources of pollution in surface water, and could provide a crude guideline for selecting the priorities of possible preventative measures in the proper management of the surface water resources.To summarize, it would be dangerous to use water from these rivers for domestic and agricultural purposes without some form of physical and chemical treatment. Sensitization of the authorities on the extent of water pollution of this Oued and the harmful consequences for man and the ecosystem should be urgent and mandatory.

The cost of doing nothing: Testing the benefits of water disposal risk reduction with water management Activism investing in Latin America

Objective: This paper answers What would the performance of an investor be if she or he invested only in public companies with proper water management practices in Latin America (LATAM)? Methodology: The research uses the water-to-revenues (WTR) ratio to measure water management quality. It simulates the performance of an investor invested mainly in companies with the best WTR (from January 6th, 2005, to Abril 20, 2022). Results: Comparing the simulated portfolio’s performance against a broad market portfolio, the results suggest that both portfolios have similar performance in the short term. In the long term, the tests found that the WTR has a low systematic (market) risk (beta of 0.26), and its performance is more stable (mean-variance efficient) than the market portfolio. The tests also control the impact of some LATAM currencies’ depreciation. Conclusions: The results could be useful for investors to engage in water management activism through investing, motivate companies to engage in better water management practices, and reduce the future risk that water disposal represents to the world in years to come.

The cost of doing nothing: Testing the benefits of water disposal risk reduction with water management Activism investing in Latin America

Objective: This paper answers What would the performance of an investor be if she or he invested only in public companies with proper water management practices in Latin America (LATAM)? Methodology: The research uses the water-to-revenues (WTR) ratio to measure water management quality. It simulates the performance of an investor invested mainly in companies with the best WTR (from January 6th, 2005, to Abril 20, 2022). Results: Comparing the simulated portfolio’s performance against a broad market portfolio, the results suggest that both portfolios have similar performance in the short term. In the long term, the tests found that the WTR has a low systematic (market) risk (beta of 0.26), and its performance is more stable (mean-variance efficient) than the market portfolio. The tests also control the impact of some LATAM currencies’ depreciation. Conclusions: The results could be useful for investors to engage in water management activism through investing, motivate companies to engage in better water management practices, and reduce the future risk that water disposal represents to the world in years to come.