Sustainable Water Management Practices Research Articles

Assessing multi‐sensor hourly maize evapotranspiration estimation using a one‐source surface energy balance approach

AbstractIn this study, the performance of a one‐source surface energy balance (OSEB) remote sensing (RS) of actual crop evapotranspiration (ETa), incorporating data from different spaceborne, airborne and proximal multispectral data, was evaluated. The RS platforms in this study included Landsat‐8 (30 m pixel size), Sentinel‐2 (10 m), Planet CubeSat (3 m), a handheld (proximal) multispectral radiometer (MSR) (1 m) and an unmanned aerial system (UAS) (0.03 m). A 2‐year data set (2020 and 2021) from two maize research sites in Greeley and Fort Collins, Colorado, USA, provided ground‐based data for estimating and evaluating hourly ETa from the OSEB algorithm. The accuracy of OSEB hourly maize ETa estimates was evaluated using calculated hourly maize ETa using high‐frequency data collected with an eddy covariance energy balance system installed at each research site. The results indicated that the Planet CubeSat multispectral sensor (3 m), combined with on‐site surface temperature data, yielded the least errors when predicting maize ETa. The hourly ETa estimation errors for the Planet CubeSat were MBE ± RMSE of −0.02 (−3%) ± 0.07 (13%) mm h⁻1. These results suggest the urgent need for a specific approach to improve RS multispectral and thermal radiometric data (quality) to better support sustainable irrigation water management practices.

Assessment of Environmentally Minimum Water Level in a Mediterranean Lake Using Morphological, Hydrological and Biological Factors

Water resources management requires comprehensive and integrated approaches that jointly consider hydrological, ecological and social factors. The assessment of lakes’ environmentally minimum water level is a critical tool for the sustainable management and protection of their ecosystems. This work combines the morphological, hydrological and biological factors of a Mediterranean lake (Lake Volvi, northern Greece) to assess its environmentally minimum water level. Initially, the morphological characteristics of the lake’s bottom were analyzed, with consideration given to the protection of the lake’s ecosystem and to the need to meet the water requirements for economic activities. Then, a hydromorphological analysis was conducted, relying on the surface water inflows to the lake from its hydrological catchment and the lake’s water level -volume relationship. In addition, the water level requirements of the biological communities of macrophytes, benthic macroinvertebrates, and fish, as revealed after samplings were taken from the lake’s littoral zone, are considered. Based on the above methodologies, the environmentally minimum water level of Lake Volvi is proposed to be lowered by as much as 35.8 m from February to May and 35.3 m from June to January in order to maintain the ecological integrity of the lake and the sustainable use of its water resources. The present study establishes a foundation for informed water resource management; however, ongoing research can improve methodologies and address emerging questions, fostering advancements in sustainable water management practices.

Wastewater recycling and groundwater sustainability through self-organizing map and style based generative adversarial networks

Wastewater recycling is a pivotal strategy in sustainable water management, designed to mitigate water scarcity and curb environmental pollution. This research introduces an innovative approach merging Self-Organizing Maps (SOM) and Style-Based Generator Generative Adversarial Networks (StyleGAN) to revolutionize wastewater recycling. SOM optimizes the distribution of treated water by identifying ideal locations for recycling outlets and treatment facilities. Meanwhile, StyleGAN enhances water quality by learning from diverse samples, producing purified water suitable for non-drinking purposes. The combination of SOM and StyleGAN maximizes resource utilization and addressing water scarcity challenges while minimizing environmental impact. Also, this method is not only optimizes treated water distribution but also enhances water quality, showcasing potential benefits for sustainable water practices, including groundwater replenishment. Self-Organizing Maps construct a spatial model of the wastewater treatment system, finding optimal locations for recycling outlets and treatment facilities. This spatial intelligence optimizes the distribution of treated water, channeling it efficiently to high-demand areas, thereby maximizing resource utilization. Simultaneously, Style-Based Generator Generative Adversarial Networks elevate the quality of treated wastewater. By assimilating knowledge from diverse wastewater samples, StyleGAN produces water of superior quality with diminished contaminants and enhanced aesthetics. This transformation renders treated wastewater more versatile for non-potable purposes like irrigation and industrial processes. The SOM-StyleGAN technologies offers a holistic solution for wastewater recycling, addressing both distribution efficiency and water quality enhancement. The SOM method outperforms MLP, DBN, and GAN-ANN in fidelity, diversity, contaminant reduction, and aesthetic quality. With a fidelity of 0.97, substantial improvements over GAN-ANN showcase its effectiveness. These results underscore the method's potential contribution to sustainable water management practices, emphasizing its versatility and quality in treated water generation. These findings contribute significantly to enhancing water quality and underscore its potential practical implications for sustainable water practices, marking a substantial step forward in the field.

Fallowing Strategy and Its Impact on Surface Water and Groundwater Withdrawal, and Agricultural Economics: A System Dynamics Approach in Southern New Mexico

Enhancing the comprehension of alterations in land use holds paramount importance for water management in semi-arid regions due to its effects on hydrology and agricultural economics. Allowing agricultural land to lie fallow has emerged as a technique to decrease water use. This research employs the methodology of system dynamics modeling to evaluate the hydrologic and agricultural economic ramifications of employing the fallowing strategy, which aims to preserve water resources in interconnected socio-hydrologic systems. This strategy is explored across three different crops, focusing on the Mesilla–Rincon Valley (MRV) in southern New Mexico. The study’s timeline spans from 2022 to 2050 with historical background from 1969 and encompasses various dimensions, including water availability, land utilization, and agricultural economics. Three types of crops were selected for the fallowing strategy, including cotton, alfalfa/hay, and chile. For each crop, 2500 acres of it would be designated for fallowing separately in two subsequent years, allowing the land to be cultivated in the third year and recurring such pattern. Simulation findings across scenarios (GFDL, UKMO, and NCAR) indicate that water withdrawals for all crops decreased significantly, ranging from approximately 2.69% to 4.37%. Similarly, agriculture income experienced reductions, varying from around 1.53% to 2.26%. Also, surface water and groundwater withdrawals are represented as percentages. The data illustrate significant reductions in water withdrawals across all scenarios. For instance, in the GFDL scenario, surface water withdrawal decreased by approximately 1.85% for cotton, 2.56% for alfalfa/hay, and 1.58% for chile. Similarly, groundwater withdrawals saw substantial reductions, such as 14.93% for cotton, 20.44% for alfalfa/hay, and 12.62% for chile. These numbers emphasize the urgent need for sustainable water management practices to address the challenges posed by reduced water availability.

Social perception on rainwater harvesting and wastewater reuse: Opportunities and challenges of a fast-growing township in Dhaka

Dhaka, the only megacity of Bangladesh is facing water stress due to unplanned urbanization and lack of sustainable water management practices. The two important components of Integrated Urban Water Management, i.e., rainwater harvesting (RWH) and wastewater reuse are hardly practiced in Dhaka. A new township is growing in Dhaka to meet the dwelling needs of middle-income groups with the opportunities to integrate both the systems. However, the integration is either missing or lacks considerations of sustainability. This study explores the perceptions of 256 respondents (beneficiary and functionary) to ascertain the opportunities and challenges of integration of RWH and wastewater of the growing township using structured questionnaires. The awareness, level of knowledge, willingness and key necessities have been explored through the questions. The general awareness level on RWH and wastewater reuse ranges between 30% - 62% and 34%- 42% respectively for different age groups. Around 70% of the respondents lack knowledge on regulatory aspects of its implementation. Apart from economic insights, the perception reveals around 64% willingness towards its integration for urban water demand management. Complete awareness generation, enforcement of compliance and streamlining the process of integration are the key imperatives to offset the non-adoption of both components.

Determinants of efficient water use and conservation in the Colombian manufacturing industry using machine learning

Water is a fundamental aspect of achieving sustainable industries, and it is essential for firms to make efficient use of it. However, not all companies have sustainable water management practices in place. In this study, we aim to answer the research question: What factors influenced the efficient use and saving of water in the Colombian manufacturing industry in 2020? We used data from the Annual Manufacturing Survey and the Industrial Environmental Survey conducted by DANE to investigate this question. Our study grouped the variables into four categories: Environmental commitment, Risk mitigation, Innovation, and Location. We used two supervised learning machine-learning algorithms—decision tree and logit regression with LASSO regularization—to analyze the data. The results underscore those investments in wastewater treatment, total water consumption, and commitments to air and climate protection emerge as pivotal drivers for embracing sustainable practices. Moreover, the geographical location of companies significantly influences the likelihood of implementing water conservation initiatives. To enhance efficient water use and conservation in the Colombian manufacturing sector, several targeted public policies are recommended. These include offering fiscal and financial incentives to encourage investments in advanced wastewater treatment and reuse technologies. Additionally, advocating for specialized training and environmental education programs tailored for corporate personnel is crucial. Moreover, establishing initiatives for environmental certification and eco-labeling within the corporate sector can significantly promote sustainable water practices. Lastly, enforcing more stringent environmental regulations and standards, especially for industries like Textile, Metallurgy, and Manufacturing of rubber and plastic products, is essential to ensure responsible water management across the sector.

OPTIMISING THE USE OF IRRIGATED LANDS IN KAZAKHSTAN: SYSTEM ANALYSIS AND RESOURCE MANAGEMENT

This article explores the challenges and opportunities in optimizing the use of irrigated lands in Kazakhstan, focusing on system analysis and resource management. The research purpose is to identify strategic improvements in irrigation practices and regional water governance, while aiming to enhance water resource management efficiency and sustainability in agriculture. The main directions of the study involve analyzing Kazakhstan's reliance on external water sources, infrastructural inefficiencies, and region-specific strategies for sustainable agricultural practices. Methodologically, the research relies on regional case studies, national statistical data, and quantitative analyses, including correlations and descriptive statistics. It also applies frameworks like Integrated Water Resources Management, Socio-Ecological Systems, Water-Energy-Food Nexus, and Participatory Water Management. The research results highlight Kazakhstan's vulnerability due to its significant dependence on external water sources, accounting for 46% of its water supply, and inefficiencies in its aging irrigation infrastructure. The practical value of this research is in offering comprehensive, actionable recommendations to policymakers, agricultural stakeholders, and local communities for improving infrastructure, adopting efficient irrigation techniques, and fostering international collaboration. The research novelty lies in its interdisciplinary application of multiple strategic frameworks to develop tailored strategies addressing the unique challenges across Kazakhstan's economic districts, balancing agricultural productivity with sustainable water management practices.

Study and Assessment of Mineralogical, Chemical and Granulometric Composition of Volatile Soil-Sand Aerosols from Dried Out Part of Aral Sea

This article presents the results of a comprehensive study of the chemical composition, structural characteristics, and porous structure of soil and sand in the dried-out part of the Aral Sea. Chemical analysis of soil samples revealed a high content of basic elements, such as oxides of silicon, aluminium, iron, calcium, and magnesium, which affect chemical activity and interaction with the environment. The structural characteristics of the samples taken in the dried part of the Aral Sea made it possible to evaluate their ability to adsorb and interact with water and other substances. The study of soil's adsorption and porosity characteristics has revealed its ability to retain moisture and other important components in the porous structure. The results obtained allow us to better understand the mechanisms of interaction of soil and sand with water. Data can serve as a basis for developing effective and sustainable water management practices and optimizing the use of soil materials.

An eco-friendly solution for greywater treatment via date palm fiber filter

Greywater reuse emerges as a promising solution, being a renewable resource with relatively low treatment costs due to its low pollutant content. In Saudi Arabia, ablution water (AW) serves as a significant example of greywater due to its substantial quantities. This study introduces an assessment of a pilot scale sustainable filtration system for treating AW for reuse purposes and its water savings potential in mosques. Various AW samples were collected from 24 mosques distributed across Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, considering geographic location and local activity. The collected samples underwent measurement and comparison of total dissolved solids (TDS), pH, conductivity and turbidity. A filtration process was conducted using date palm fibers (DPFs) as a green filtration media with varying thicknesses to achieve optimal TDS and turbidity removal. The findings exhibited significant decreases in turbidity, up to 90%, while TDS and conductivity lowered by up to 15%. pH levels varied based on the surrounding area's activities, decreasing for domestic and increasing for commercial and industrial regions, meeting the standard pH environmental levels. This study sheds light on the potential of greywater recycling, contributing to efforts in mitigating water scarcity and promoting sustainable water management practices.

Theoretical framework for assessing the economic and environmental impact of water pollution: A detailed study on sustainable development of India

This research paper aims to explore the relationship between water pollution and sustainable development. Water pollution is a significant environmental challenge that threatens the sustainability of ecosystems, human health, and economic development. Sustainable development aims to meet the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The research methodology involves a comprehensive review of relevant literature on water pollution and sustainable development, including empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and policy documents. The research will explore the impact of water pollution on sustainable development, the drivers of water pollution, and the policy and regulatory frameworks that promote sustainable water management. The findings of this research paper will contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex relationship between water pollution and sustainable development and provide insights into effective strategies and policies that can promote sustainable water management. The research will also highlight the importance of public awareness and education in promoting sustainable practices and behaviors that can help to prevent and mitigate water pollution. This research paper will provide valuable insights into achieving sustainable water management practices that promote environmental sustainability and socio-economic development.

The Impact of Climate change on Water Resources in Northern Sri Lanka: Stakeholder Perspectives

Climate change is a global phenomenon affecting the entire planet, including Sri Lanka. The Northern Province of Sri Lanka is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, especially regarding water resources. Public awareness of climate change and its impact on water resources is crucial for sustainable water management practices in the study area. In this context, this study attempted to analyze public perception of the climate change impact on the water resources of Northern Sri Lanka. There are different groups of water users in the study area. They were stratified as agriculture water users, industrial water users, fishing water users and domestic and drinking water users. Accordingly, a questionnaire survey was conducted using a stratified sampling method to identify consumer perceptions, and the collected data were analyzed using the SPSS tool. 87% of the consumers believe that climate change has a significant impact on water resources, and 50% of the people expressed vulnerability of the agriculture sector to the climate change impact on water resources. Water scarcity during the yala season became a crucial threat to paddy cultivation in the study area. Other kind of water users such as industrial water users, fishing water users and drinking and domestic water users face difficulties in obtaining water resources for their needs during the SWMS and FIMS. Furthermore, drinking and domestic water users mentioned that they face water quality issues especially during July, August and September. During the southwest monsoon season, water users face difficulties in obtaining water for their domestic needs due to water scarcity. Majority of the water users know about climate change, but many of them don’t know how climate change affects their water sources. Water suppliers should implement special projects regarding climate change impacts on water resources in the study area. This will lead the water users to use water efficiently and protect the water sources sustainably.

Managerial agility and digital transformation of hydraulic basins: A case study of the Guir Hydraulic Basin Agency

This study aims to examine the impact of managerial agility on decision-making and water resources management within the Guir Hydraulic Basin Agency, focusing on digital approaches. Using a primarily quantitative approach, a questionnaire was administered to assess the perception of digital transformation success and the role of managerial agility among staff within the agency. The results underscore the pivotal role of managerial agility in optimizing water resources within the Hydraulic Basin Agency. The perceived success of digital transformation efforts, alongside the emphasis on collaborative decision-making and agile leadership, highlights the significance of this managerial approach. Furthermore, the recognition of digital training and cross-functional collaboration underscores the multifaceted impact of managerial agility on fostering sustainable water management practices. Agile communication emerges as crucial for aligning stakeholders with digital transformation objectives, thereby reinforcing the integral role of managerial agility in driving efficiency and sustainability in water resources management.

The Dispute Over The Nile River Involving The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam

This study examines the complex conflict over the Nile River, focusing on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and its implications for regional socio-economic development. The research adopts a systems perspective to analyze the dynamics between Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia. It highlights the challenges of water management in the Nile River Basin, shared by eleven African countries, and delves into the geopolitical, environmental, and socio-economic factors at play. The research team, composed of Latin American scholars, acknowledges their outsider perspective and strives to incorporate a wide range of views. The findings discuss the historical treaties, current negotiations, and the importance of a balanced agreement that considers the interests of all parties, the threat of climate change, and sustainable water management practices. The study concludes with insights that could inform similar disputes in other transboundary river basins and underscores the urgency for cooperative solutions to prevent humanitarian crises. Keywords: Nile River, GERD, Causal Loops, System Perspective

Analyzing trends and change points in hydro-meteorological parameters and groundwater level in the Barak river basin in India

Climate change has a substantial influence on a range of meteorological factors and the global hydrological cycle. This paper presents an analysis of the annual rainfall (P), temperature (including maximum temperature: Tmax, minimum temperature: Tmin, and average temperature: Tavg), stream flow (Q) data from 6 gauging sites, and groundwater level (GL) data from 7 groundwater stations in and around the Barak River Basin in India from 1986 to 2020. To identify patterns in the time series, the simple linear regression (SLR) approach, the Mann-Kendall (MK) test, the Hamid Mann-Kendall (HMK) test and the Spearman's Rho (SRO) tests have been employed. Pettit test has been used to identify the change points in the time series. The results indicated an increase in the Tmax and the Tmin across the study area, while no clear patterns were found in the Tavg time series. Except for the ‘Hailakhandi’ station, the annual total rainfall series showed an increasing trend. Tmax and Tmin showed a directional change point between 1999 and 2005, and between 2001 and 2007, respectively, according to change point analysis. Except for two stations, overall declining trends in the annual stream flow were found. Moreover, a total of five out of seven groundwater stations indicated a rise in groundwater levels. The findings presented here offer valuable insights into the current condition of the Barak basin and emphasize the importance of implementing sustainable water management practices.

Spatial Assessment and Variation of Soil Physicochemical Properties and Water Quality in the Tungi Watershed of Maharashtra, India

Aims: To thoroughly evaluate the spatial variability of soil physicochemical properties and groundwater quality of the study area by systematic collection and analysis of geo-referenced soil and groundwater samples to quantify the physical, chemical and biological attributes of the soil. The objective is to gain a comprehensive understanding of soil and water quality in the Tungi watershed, providing valuable insights to guide sustainable land and water management practices in the region.
 Place and Duration of Study: Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Latur between 2020 and 2021.
 Methodology: A total of one hundred geo-referenced surface soil samples (0-30 cm) and ten groundwater samples were methodically collected from the surrounding area of soil profiles in the Tungi watershed, situated in Latur, Maharashtra. Physical, chemical and biological properties of soil evaluated using recommended standard methods.
 Results: Bulk density varied from 1.13 to 1.93 Mg m-3, particle density from 2.48 to 2.94 Mg m-3 and porosity from 22 to 58 percent. Soil pH ranged from 7.05 to 8.96 and electrical conductivity was within the permissible range. Organic carbon content of soils ranged from 0.15 to 1.05 percent, with some soils having a calcareous character (0.6 to 22.2 percent). The analysis of nutrient content revealed variable quantities with available nitrogen ranging from 53.31 to 250.88 kg ha-1, available phosphorus from 12.51 to 27.49 kg ha-1, available potassium from 106.9 to 851.5 kg ha-1 and available sulphur from 4.37 to 66.65 mg kg-1. Exchangeable calcium and magnesium quantities revealed ranges of 14.60 to 42.40 cmol(p+) kg-1 and 5.40 to 21.60 cmol(p+) kg-1, respectively. Furthermore, DTPA extractable iron varied from 4.24 to 16.38 mg kg-1, manganese from 4.76 to 25.84 mg kg-1, zinc and copper from 0.5 to 6.56 mg kg-1 and 0.72 to 15.56 mg kg-1, respectively and boron from 0.1 to 3.56 mg kg-1. Microbial population estimates revealed the dominance of bacteria over fungi and actinomycetes in the studied area. Groundwater carbonate and bicarbonate ranged from 0.01 to 0.62 m mol-1 and 6.35 to 10.24 mmol-1 respectively. The dug well, bore well and tube well water RSC ranged from 0.70 to 1.25 mmol-1.
 Conclusion: This extensive study provides helpful insights into the regional variability of physical and chemical properties in both soil and water with help of soil fertility maps, providing better understanding of soil fertilizer input and environmental conditions in the Tungi watershed.

ANALYSIS OF METHODS FOR ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF A COKE PLANT ON THE ENVIRONMENT

This academic paper explores various assessment methods used to evaluate the environmental impact of industrial enterprises, specifically focusing on coke plants. The study emphasises the widespread use of a global risk-based approach for assessing the environmental risks posed by such enterprises to both the environment and public health. This approach involves predicting potential future environmental consequences under different scenarios, with the choice of a specific method dependent on the particular conditions, objectives, and available resources.The analysis of these assessment methods reveals the prevalence of an integrated approach, which comprehensively evaluates multiple aspects of an industrial enterprise’s environmental impact. Moreover, the research underscores the importance of adopting modern technologies and strategies to enhance water supply and wastewater management efficiency for environmental preservation.The assessment of the ‘Kharkiv Coke Plant’ indicates minimal impact on land inundation issues, with little effect on groundwater quality. However, the excessive consumption of freshwater remains a significant concern, necessitating improved efficiency in the operation of the plant’s wastewater recycling systems. To evaluate the enterprise’s influence on surface waters, notably the Lopan and Udy rivers, the paper calculates the volume and flow of wastewater originating from the facility’s premises.Additionally, environmental impact assessment is conducted using key environmental indicators, including the alarm index, hazard index, and priority index. In light of the identified environmental challenges at the investigated industrial facility, including wastewater discharge into the municipal sewerage system, high water consumption, and phenol emissions from the quenching tower, the paper proposes a solution. This solution entails enhancing the plant’s water recycling infrastructure through the implementation of a closed-loop water recycling system and improving the efficiency of the biochemical plant. This approach aims to mitigate the environmental impact of the enterprise while promoting sustainable water management practices. Keywords: environmental problems, water resources, degree of pollution, enterprises.

Measuring environmental and cost benefits of riparian buffers for drinking water production in a Midwest watershed

AbstractThis study focuses on the economic value and carbon benefits of riparian buffers in urban drinking water production. The impact of riparian buffers on the waterworks operation in the Raccoon River watershed was quantified using the following metrics: nitrate concentration, days of nitrate removal operation, material and energy cost (based on 17 years of historical records with a watershed model), regression, and cost analysis. The findings indicate that the presence of riparian buffers in agricultural land can substantially decrease nitrate concentration in the water intake of the waterworks during the crop‐growing season: 19% in April, 9% in May, and 11% in June. These reductions mean less nitrate treatment of the plant intake flow: 23% in April, 12% in May, and 3% in June. These changes lead to significant resource savings: 425 metric tons of sodium chloride (NaCl), 147 810 kWh of electricity, 253 metric tons of powdered activated carbon, and 20.8 million liters of fresh water. The buffers would also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 86.9 metric tons (CO2 equivalent) in 17 years. The total cost saving was estimated at $327 326, with the highest potential savings in May ($215 100), followed by April ($65 465), and June ($46 761). When factoring in buffer installation, cropland loss, nitrate removal, and cost associated with buffer harvest for biofuel in an established biomass market, the benefit to the entire watershed community would be $2.63 million annually. The results underscore the significant cost benefits and environmental benefits associated with cropland riparian buffers in a watershed community. The approach employed in this study holds promise for assessing riparian buffer benefits in other watersheds, contributes to an understanding of sustainable water management practices, and provides a basis for decision making in a wide range of agricultural regions.

Sustainable Water Management: Developing a Hydroponic-Watering System to Support Epiphytic Plant Growth

This study introduces an innovative hydroponic–epiphytic water system designed to address water conservation challenges in urban agriculture. The system involves repurposing water from a hydroponic setup to irrigate epiphytic plants, promoting sustainability and efficient water management. Expert opinions on the system's development and innovations were gathered using a structured evaluation based on key indicators. Notably, the mean scores were analyzed using an Inter-rater reliability assessment in order to determine the expert's opinion on the development and innovations of the hydroponic-epiphytic water system, and indicate strong acceptance in various aspects, including economic profitability, low initial cost, and compatibility with social values. However, identified areas for modification, such as time and effort savings and immediate benefits, offer valuable insights for refinement. The hydroponic–epiphytic system's components, meticulously detailed in the study, contribute to its structural integrity and water circulation efficiency. The chemical composition of the hydroponic solution, emphasizing nitrogen-rich urea, ensures precise nutrient delivery. The hydroponic growing medium, a blend of carbonized rice hull and coconut coir, provides an optimal environment for plant growth. The closed-loop water flow system minimizes wastage by recycling hydroponic water for epiphytic plants, aligning with sustainable gardening practices. In conclusion, the hydroponic–epiphytic water system proves effective in meeting its objectives of innovation and water conservation. Expert evaluations enhance its credibility, and the identified areas for improvement offer a roadmap for optimization. Recommendations include exploring alternative energy sources, conducting extended studies for long-term observations, and a more comprehensive expert opinion study. This study contributes to the advancement of urban-friendly, sustainable water management practices in agriculture.

Water Sustainability Initiatives to Meet the Water Crisis in India

One of the most pressing global challenges we face today is the rapid growth of the population. As the population continues to expand, the need for rapid industrialization has become paramount. However, this industrialization and urbanization have given rise to a significant and detrimental consequence: environmental pollution. This pollution, in turn, has led to various crises, including those related to water, food, and air quality. Water, being an essential element for human existence, is of utmost importance. Without access to clean and sufficient water, life on Earth would be unsustainable. Unfortunately, India has been grappling with a prominent water crisis, particularly during the summer seasons, resulting in the loss of countless lives each year. Even during other seasons, the availability of water is often satisfactory, but the quality of water remains a concern in many parts of the country. The shortage of water can be attributed primarily to the declining levels of underground water and the ever-increasing demand for this precious resource. India receives ample rainfall during the monsoon season; however, a significant portion of this water flows into the oceans, causing floods in various regions. Conversely, during the summer months, the scarcity of water leads to droughts in many areas. Therefore, it is imperative to initiate sustainable water management practices, including rainwater harvesting, to address this water crisis. This review article delves into various types of water sustainability initiatives with a structured approach and analyzes the associated challenges. Additionally, it proposes detailed systems that can be implemented to enhance water availability and distribution throughout the country. These measures are crucial steps toward mitigating the water crisis and ensuring a sustainable water future for India.

Water and Sanitation Services at the Local Government Level in Bangladesh: An Analysis of SDG 6 Implementation Status and Way Forward

This study looks into the state of SDG 6 implementation at the local government level in Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC) with a focus on water and sanitation services. The research adopts a mixed-method approach and in-depth interviews to collect primary data. The study analyses the collected data using both quantitative and qualitative techniques. It has been found that large numbers of people do not always have access to enough water, demonstrating the problem of water scarcity in the region. According to the study, only a small percentage of participants tested their drinking water, which suggests that participants were not aware of the importance of water quality. Additionally, the lack of personal water purification and reuse systems is revealed by the research, indicating a gap in sustainable water management practices. Most of the city dwellers expressed dissatisfaction with the authority’s management of the water supply, indicating insufficient oversight and governance. The findings highlight the need for improved infrastructures, water treatment techniques, education campaigns, and governance mechanisms to effectively meet SDG 6 targets and guarantee residents of RCC access to clean water and sanitary facilities.