Sustainable Water Management Practices Research Articles

Equity implications of Efficient Water Conservation Programs

Abstract Urban water management is increasingly challenged by the need to balance cost-effectiveness with equity considerations. This study presents a multi-objective approach to water conservation within the Las Vegas Valley Water District (LVVWD), analyzing a comprehensive dataset of water consumption and socioeconomic indicators across all single-family residences. We assess policy scenarios under two primary objectives: maximizing water savings to enhance economic efficiency and improving water affordability to promote equity. Our analysis reveals that while strategies focused on water savings reduce water use more efficiently, they tend to favor higher-income, predominantly white neighborhoods whereas prioritizing water affordability shifts resources towards lower-income, communities of color. The analysis of intermediate policy scenarios reveals the trade-offs and potential synergies between water savings and affordability. Our findings suggest that local water sustainability can be achieved by allocating resources to both high-demand and socioeconomically disadvantaged households. Highlighting the importance of integrating equity considerations into water management policies, this study provides insights for policymakers in crafting more inclusive and sustainable urban water management practices.

Application of Geographic Information System (GIS) Technology to Formulate Unused Spring Water Optimization Strategy

Background: This article presents the findings of a comprehensive community empowerment program that focused on the application of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology for the optimization strategy formulation of unused spring water. Contribution: The contribution of this program address the challenge for better utilization of unused spring water and promote sustainable water management practices. Method: The study employed GIS technology to identify and map unused springs, followed by hydrological analysis and water quality assessment to inform the development of optimization strategies. Results: This program suggested infrastructure development, water conservation measures, and distribution network design to enhance water availability. Conclusion: The findings show that GIS approach is suitable for further applications in other Indonesian mountainous villages with similarly shared community traits. However, further some locality aspects, including, but not limited to community leadership and economic power, need to be assessed further, as they play significant influences on the success of the program

Measuring climate vulnerability of tourism-dependent livelihoods: The case of Lamgtang National Park

Climate change poses significant challenges to tourism-dependent communities in mountain regions, threatening their livelihoods and well-being. However, there is a lack of comprehensive assessments that consider the multidimensional nature of vulnerability and the specific socio-cultural contexts of these communities. This study assesses the livelihood vulnerability of tourism-dependent communities in Lamtang National Park exposed to climate change using the Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI) and the Livelihood Vulnerability Index -Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (LVI-IPCC) framework. A mixed-methods approach was employed, including household surveys (n=119), vulnerability index calculations, and analysis of weather data. The purposive stratified sampling based on ecological gradient and proximity to trekking trails ensured the representativeness of the sample. One hundred nineteen households were surveyed, with respondents from the Hill Janajati ethnic group. Results showed that the majority of households (63%) were tourism-dominant, followed by agriculture-dominant (17%) and mixed livelihood (13%). The LVI results revealed a moderate vulnerability (0.365), with financial and natural capitals being the most vulnerable. The LVI-IPCC analysis showed that the community's adaptive capacity (0.537) is slightly lower than its exposure (0.564), and sensitivity is comparatively low (0.296), resulting in a low LVI-IPCC index (0.01). Weather data analysis, including the Mann-Kendall trend test, Sen's slope analysis, and multi-model ensemble projections, indicated increasing precipitation trends and a warmer, wetter future for the region. The triangulation of LVI, LVI-IPCC, forecast data, and weather station data strengthens the findings and highlights the need for targeted interventions. The projected changes in temperature and precipitation patterns for Rasuwa district and vulnerability status of tourism-dependent communities highlight the urgency of implementing climate change adaptation measures, which may include diversifying livelihoods, improving access to education and training, strengthening social support systems, and promoting sustainable land and water management practices.

Irrigation effects on aromatics and phenolics of eggplant (Solanum melongena)

This research examines the impact of treated and untreated wastewater on eggplant cultivation, focusing on the aroma profile and phenolic composition. The results demonstrate significant alterations in dry matter content, pH levels, and total phenolic compounds in eggplant varieties irrigated with wastewater, compared to tap water. Regarding total phenolic content, the highest result was 120.14 mg kg–1 in the Kemer variety irrigated with wastewater. The amount of water-soluble dry matter in eggplant varieties irrigated with physical treatment (WW1), physical + biological treatment, and municipal (tap) water (MW) was found to vary between 7.80% and 5.20%. The aromatic analysis identifies variations in volatile compounds with higher concentrations of specific components, such as farnesene <(E, E)- alpha-> (30.60%), benzene <para-dichloro-> (22.05%), and non-(2E)-enal (26.89%), under different qualities of water irrigation treatments. An increase in the purification level of irrigation water increased the percentage of farnesene <(E, E)-, alpha->, ranging from 15.13% (Aydın Siyahi, WW1) to 30.60% (Kemer, MW). The results underline the importance of sustainable water management practices and highlight the need to quality of irrigation water in agricultural areas to ensure soil health, environmental sustainability and food safety.

Water Carrying Capacity on Small Islands Tourism: Case Study of the Tidung Islands, Jakarta

This study examines the water carrying capacity of the Tidung Islands, a popular small island tourism destination in Jakarta, Indonesia. The research aims to measure the availability of water resources and assess the balance between water supply and demand, focusing on both domestic and tourism needs. Using a water balance approach, the study analyzes seasonal fluctuations in precipitation, evapotranspiration, runoff, and changes in water storage. The results indicate that while Tidung Islands currently have a surplus of water resources, projected increases in population and tourism will lead to periods of water deficit by 2040. The study highlights the critical need for sustainable water management practices, including rainwater harvesting, efficient water use, and community involvement in conservation efforts. Implementing these strategies is essential to ensure long-term water security and support the continued growth of tourism and local development in Tidung Islands.

Assessing the Groundwater Quality in Urban Areas Using the DEMATEL Method

The Dhanbad area in Jharkhand, India, is a significant coal mining region located in the middle of the Damodar River basin. The geological composition of the area ranges in age from to Recent, encompassing, granites, pegmatite, and gneisses. These rocks are accompanied by bands of s and amphibolites. In this particular region, groundwater occurrence and movement are primarily restricted to semi weathered/weathered and fractured rocks. The movement of groundwater depends on various factors, including the thickness, size, extent, and openness of the weathered zone, as well as the interconnections of fractures within the rocks. Due to the dynamic nature of groundwater resources, it is susceptible to various factors that can impact its availability and quality. The expansion of irrigation activities, industrialization, and urbanization in the area can have significant implications for the groundwater resources. These activities can lead to increased water demand, contamination risks, and changes in the hydrological balance. Given the importance of groundwater as a vital resource, it becomes crucial to monitor and conserve it effectively. Monitoring techniques, such as hydrological studies, geophysical surveys, and groundwater level measurements, can provide valuable information about the status and behavior of groundwater resources. Conservation efforts may involve implementing sustainable water management practices, promoting water-use efficiency, and controlling pollution sources. By utilizing GIS and available physic-chemical data, the study seeks to generate a comprehensive water quality index map that can assist in making informed decisions regarding water resource management and protection in the Dhanbad area. This understanding can help in developing sustainable strategies to ensure the availability and quality of groundwater in areas like, where natural resources are intricately linked to human activities and industrial development. The variations in the resistivity of water-bearing weathered/fractured rocks in the Dhanbad area depend on the specific geological characteristics of the rocks and their water content. The resistivity refers to the rock's ability to resist the flow of electric current and can provide insights into the rock's porosity and permeability, which are crucial factors for groundwater movement. The depth to groundwater in the area can vary and is typically measured from below ground level. This depth is influenced by factors such as local topography, rainfall patterns, and geological conditions. The presence of active and abandoned coal mines, waste dumps, coal washeries, coking coal plants, and thermal power plants can introduce pollutants into the environment. These pollutants have the potential to contaminate groundwater, affecting its quality and usability. It is important to address these environmental concerns and prioritize the implementation of effective measures to mitigate the impact of coal mining and related activities on groundwater resources. Alternative parameters taken as Total dissolved solid, total hardness, Nitrate, ammonia nitrogen, Fluoride, Fluoride. the first ranking training is obtained with the lowest quality of compensation.

Synergistic effects of Spirulina platensis cultivation in textile wastewater towards nutrient removal and seed germination study

Recent escalating concerns surrounding textile wastewater pollution and the urgent need for sustainable treatment solutions to mitigate its environmental impact. This study investigates the multifaceted effects of Spirulina platensis (SP) cultivation in textile wastewater from two different sources (TWW1 and TWW2), focusing on growth kinetics, Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), and nutrient removal percentage, and seed germination enhancement. Results showed that SP exhibited comparable growth performance in TWW1 and TWW2 to the control, indicating its potential for sustainable wastewater treatment. Moreover, maximum COD removal percentages were achieved, reaching 62.59 ± 1.88 % for TWW1 and 46.68 ± 1.40 % for TWW2 on day 5. The COD removal process aligns best with the first-order kinetic model. Nutrient removal rates showed decreasing trends over time, with maximum phosphate removal percentages of 36.42 ± 0.73 % for TWW1 and 62.18 ± 1.24 % for TWW2, and maximum ammonia removal percentages of 59.34 ± 1.18 % for TWW1 and 69.31 ± 1.39 % for TWW2. FTIR analysis confirmed pollutant removal-induced changes in algal biomass functional groups. Seed germination studies indicated enhanced shoot and root development of vigna radiatas using treated TWW1 and TWW2 compared to the control, suggesting potential applications for irrigation. An increase in the lipid & carbohydrate content post-treatment was observed and it would be suitable for biofuel production. This comprehensive assessment demonstrates the synergistic benefits of phycoremediation in simultaneously removing pollutants, promoting plant growth, and enhancing wastewater treatment efficiency, underscoring its potential for sustainable water management practices.

Exploring urban water‐energy nexus: A case study of thermal power plants in Raichur and Ballari districts in Karnataka

AbstractThe paper provides a coupled framework of the water‐energy nexus for the water‐stressed Indian cities, weaving together multiple interlinked facets, such as the demand for drinking water, water withdrawal patterns, water‐related challenges in Thermal Power Stations (TPSs), and the benefits of using treated wastewater in TPSs. An integrated approach is suggested for maximizing the benefits of wastewater reclamation, while reducing the environmental impacts of inefficient water usage, specifically in TPSs, the largest water users in the industrial sector. This is particularly important for a developing country like India that faces declining water availability due to a growing population without commensurate increases in water‐use efficiency. Currently, India is the third largest electricity generator in the world, with coal‐fired TPSs accounting for more than 78% of the total generation (1715 TWh in 2021). This presents a case for an integrated approach to reduce freshwater consumption in TPSs located in the proximity of cities by using treated wastewater from sewage treatment plants (STPs). The integrated approach for utilizing wastewater in TPSs is a promising tail‐pipe initiative that can address multiple targets under the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 in conjunction with other interlinked Goals and their targets. The findings highlight that the suggested sustainable water management practices would lead to enhanced availability of potable water for the city dwellers, thereby addressing multiple targets under SDG 6 along with a few other consequential dimensions including affordable electricity.

European vineyards and their cultural landscapes exposed to record drought and heat

CONTEXTEuropean vineyards, producing over 50% of the world's wine and hosting significant cultural landscapes, face threats from climate change and related severe weather events. The summer of 2022, especially July, posed significant challenges due to extreme drought and high temperatures. However, this period also provided an opportunity to study how such events might involve viticulture in Europe and to explore mitigation solutions. OBJECTIVEThe objectives are (1) to characterize the severity of the extreme event of July 2022 in European wine regions regarding primary climatic parameters, (2) map vineyards at risk due to agricultural drought and high land surface temperature, and (3) discuss the role of various water-related interventions for mitigating similar events. METHODSAfter identifying the locations of European vineyards using the Corine Land Cover 2018 (CLC2018), open-access satellite data were employed to: (1) assess anomalies in Maximum Air Temperature (NATm), Land Surface Temperature (LST), Precipitation (P), and Soil Moisture (SM) in July 2022 compared to long-term averages; (2) identify regions at higher risk that experienced extreme agricultural drought (Vegetation Health Index, VHI = Extreme) and LST > 35 °C. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONSIn July 2022, European vineyards experienced an average increase of 11% in NATm, a 9% rise in LST, and a reduction of 47% in P and 30% in SM compared to historical averages. 18% of European vineyards were at risk of drought and excessive heat, particularly in Portugal (31%), France (27%), and Italy (21%), including 10 viticultural cultural landscapes. Findings highlight the urgent need for long-term sustainable water management practices over emergency interventions. This research supports informed decision-making, emphasizing that climate resilience is necessary for preserving the cultural heritage of European wine-growing areas. SIGNIFICANCEThis research provides an overview of the dynamics of extreme events on viticulture at a continental scale, promoting climate-aware viticultural systems and offering insight scalable to global viticulture under changing climatic conditions.

Navigating Kuwait's water scarcity challenges: A holistic analysis of water resources, environmental impact, cost, and policy implications

Due to fossil fuels abundance at a relatively low cost of extraction, Kuwait relies heavily on non-conventional water resources, namely desalination and treated wastewater, to sustain its water sector. However, Kuwait finds itself balancing between the benefits of its rentier economy and the challenges posed by its reliance on fossil fuels, navigating a complex landscape of economic and environmental sustainability. This paper endeavors to explore the complex paradox surrounding Kuwait's water resources, examining the role of desalination, wastewater treatment, and groundwater extraction. It discusses into the barriers hindering efforts towards reform and mitigation strategies aimed at promoting sustainable water management practices. Including obstacles rooted in various socioeconomic and sociopolitical factors, such as low utility tariffs, heavy dependence on fossil fuels, and deficiencies in the country's water infrastructure. Through the application of a life cycle assessment and a detailed cost analysis, this research unveils the significant environmental and financial burdens associated with Kuwait's current water supply methods, prompting concerns regarding their sustainability and the nation's water security. While the primary focus of this study is on Kuwait, the analysis and findings hold broader implications and repercussions.

Sustainable Water Conservation and Management Practices: A Perception Survey of the Farmers of Haryana, India

In order to ensure water sustainability, alarming levels of water scarcity across the globe is a critical issue warranting urgent address. The present study aims to bring to light the perception of farmers regarding water conservation and management practices from the selected five districts of the Haryana region of India. By analyzing the responses of 125 farmers, collected through a self-administered questionnaire, the impact of socio-demographic factors, current irrigation system, and cost-benefit perception of the farmers was studied on water conservation and management practices. Using ordinal regression analysis, the study revealed that the cost-benefit perception of the farmers, viz. willingness to pay an additional price for canal water and an increase in the availability of water due to canal lining, are the major factors responsible for undertaking conservation and sustainability measures. Further, socio-demographic variables such as age and education also influence water conservation behavior. The study recommends vital policy reforms and initiatives for efficient water use and management to resolve the grave concern of scarcity of usable water. The present study is unique in its suggestion of a comprehensive water conservation and management framework.

Enhanced Peroxymonosulfate activation via Bi 12 CoO 20 /rGO with Near‐Infrared Photothermal Response for Antibiotics Degradation

Against the backdrop of escalating antibiotic pollution, this study presents a novel approach to remediation using a photothermal heterogeneous Fenton‐like catalyst, Bi12CoO20/rGO, which efficiently activates peroxymonosulfate (PMS) under near‐infrared (NIR) light. This catalyst capitalize on the NIR absorption capabilities of Bi12CoO20 and the electron transfer properties of reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The restored sp2 structure of rGO serves as a conduit for electron transfer, crucial for the redox cycle of Co2+/Co3+ that facilitates PMS activation. Moreover, the incorporation of rGO significantly boosts the NIR absorption capacity of Bi12CoO20, thereby enhancing the photothermal conversion efficiency of the composite and further promoting PMS activation. This synergy enables efficient light‐to‐heat conversion and PMS activation, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) essential for antibiotic degradation. Using levofloxacin (LVX) as a representative pollutant, the developed system achieves an impressive 99% degradation rate within just 30 min under Bi12CoO20/rGO + PMS + NIR conditions. Moreover, this approach demonstrates robust stability and adaptability across diverse water compositions and pH ranges. Its eco‐friendly nature and renewable characteristics position it as a promising solution for combating antibiotic pollution through photothermal Fenton‐like technology, thereby harnessing solar energy for environmental remediation and fostering sustainable water management practices.

Quantifying land subsidence and its nexus with groundwater depletion in isfahan-borkhar plain: An integrated approach using radar interferometry and spatial bivariate relationships

Land subsidence has emerged as a significant global concern, particularly in arid regions like Iran. Among these vulnerable areas, the Isfahan-Borkhar plain stands out due to its strategic importance and critical high-population settlements. In this study, we focus specifically on land subsidence within this plain. This study specifically examines land subsidence in this plain. Utilizing the precise radar interferometry technique, considered the most accurate method, this study investigates the vertical changes of the Earth's surface in the Isfahan-Borkhar plain between 2015 and 2022 by analyzing Sentinel-1 satellite data. To establish causality, we correlate these subsidence patterns with spatial water extraction data, employing a spatial bivariate relationship model. The results obtained from this seven-year monitoring period reveal that average annual subsidence in different areas of the Isfahan-Borkhar plain ranges from 25 to 45 cm, while the average annual decline in the water table in this aquifer is 230 cm. The pronounced subsidence observed aligns with areas experiencing the highest water level decline, emphasizing the critical role of water table depletion. In summary, our study underscores the need for sustainable water management practices to mitigate land subsidence risks in this strategically vital region.

Strategic water resource management: pump stations in Fayoum City, Egypt

Water scarcity presents significant challenges to sustainable development, particularly in arid regions like Fayoum City, Egypt, which faces particular water challenges due to its unique topography. This study explores the pivotal role of pump stations and wastewater reuse in mitigating water scarcity and promoting sustainable water management practices. Utilizing a comprehensive mixed-method approach, including desk research, field surveys, stakeholder interviews, and integrating the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) into a decision-making framework. The study categorizes pump stations into priority ranking groups based on the evaluation of the following criteria: efficiency, operating hours, working unit ratio, and discharge capacity. The investigation reveals that the 72 pump stations in Fayoum City play a vital role in regulating water levels, optimizing distribution, and facilitating the reuse of irrigation wastewater. Despite operational challenges, such as manpower shortages and maintenance issues, these stations are crucial for sustaining agricultural productivity and addressing water scarcity concerns, including the prevention of recurring inundation events like the one in 2012. Moreover, the study underscores the potential of wastewater reuse as a sustainable solution to water scarcity, particularly in meeting agricultural water demands and mitigating water balance issues, such as inundation. Based on the findings, the study proposes actionable recommendations, including upgrading high-priority pump stations, evaluating lower-priority ones, enhancing canal infrastructure, and promoting water-efficient irrigation methods. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the pivotal role of pump stations and wastewater reuse in addressing water scarcity challenges in arid regions. By implementing the proposed recommendations, Fayoum City can optimize its water management practices, ensure water security, and support the long-term development of the region.

The growth and emergence of potentially dangerous glacier lakes in Astore Basin, Western Himalaya during 1993–2021

The recent retreat of glaciers in High Mountain Asia is a major issue for downstream communities. Similarly, glaciers in the Astore Basin are melting, causing glacial lakes to expand faster, new lakes to form, and increasing the risk of glacial lakes outburst floods (GLOFs). The present study uses Landsat data from 1993 to 2021 to explore seasonal and decadal changes in glacier lakes, which are validated using an in situ differential Global Positioning System (dGPS). During the ablation period (June - October) of 2021, we observed a five-fold increase (18 to 100) in the number of glacier lakes, as well as a six-fold increase (0.62 to 3.86 km2) in lakes larger than 0.01 km2. Over the last decade, from 2011 to 2020, the number of potentially dangerous glacial lakes (PDGLs) has doubled. GLOF risk must be reduced through continual monitoring of these lakes. Prioritizing the deployment of GLOF monitoring and early warning systems, as well as sustainable water management practices, is critical for mitigation and adaptation measures in mountainous regions.

Groundwater Exploration and Assessment in Arid and Semi-Arid Regions of Basaltic Terrain of Solapur: Lessons Learned and Future Prospects

This research delves into the intricate dynamics of groundwater exploration and assessment in the arid and semi-arid basaltic terrain of Solapur, India. The study investigates the hydrogeological complexities of the region, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and sustainable practices in groundwater management. Employing advanced geophysical surveys, borehole logging, and hydrogeological modeling, the research uncovers the challenges and successes encountered during the study, providing valuable insights for future exploration strategies. Key findings highlight the heterogeneity of basaltic formations, the significance of local community engagement, and the need for adaptive approaches in groundwater exploration. Lessons learned from successes in geophysical surveys and challenges faced in borehole logging contribute to the knowledge base for effective exploration techniques in similar geological settings. The research's significance for Solapur lies in its potential to guide sustainable water management practices, empower local communities, and inform policy formulation. The emphasis on community involvement, awareness, and regulatory measures serves as a foundation for addressing water scarcity challenges in the region. Beyond Solapur, the study holds broader implications for arid and semi-arid regions globally. It contributes to scientific knowledge, informing policy frameworks, and promoting community-centric approaches to groundwater management. The research provides a blueprint for addressing water resource challenges in diverse geographical contexts, ensuring the resilience of communities and the preservation of vital groundwater resources.

The Effects of Climate Change on Streamflow, Nitrogen Loads, and Crop Yields in the Gordes Dam Basin, Turkey

The Mediterranean region is highly vulnerable to climate change. Longer and more intense heatwaves and droughts are expected. The Gordes Dam in Turkey provides drinking water for Izmir city and irrigation water for a wide range of crops grown in the basin. Using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), this study examined the effects of projected climate change (RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5) on the simulated streamflow, nitrogen loads, and crop yields in the basin for the period of 2031–2060. A hierarchical approach to define the hydrological response units (HRUs) of SWAT and the Fast Automatic Calibration Tool (FACT) were used to reduce computational time and improve model performance. The simulations showed that the average annual discharge into the reservoir is projected to increase by between 0.7 m3/s and 4 m3/s under RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 climate change scenarios. The steep slopes and changes in precipitation in the study area may lead to higher simulated streamflow. In addition, the rising temperatures predicted in the projections could lead to earlier spring snowmelt. This could also lead to increased streamflow. Projected nitrogen loads increased by between 8.8 and 25.1 t/year. The results for agricultural production were more variable. While the yields of poppy, tobacco, winter barley, and winter wheat will increase to some extent because of climate change, the yields of maize, cucumbers, and potatoes are all predicted to be negatively affected. Non-continuous and limited data on water quality and crop yields lead to uncertainties, so that the accuracy of the model is affected by these limitations and inconsistencies. However, the results of this study provide a basis for developing sustainable water and land management practices at the catchment scale in response to climate change. The changes in water quality and quantity and the ecological balance resulting from changes in land use and management patterns for economic benefit could not be fully demonstrated in this study. To explore the most appropriate management strategies for sustainable crop production, the SWAT model developed in this study should be further used in a multi-criteria land use optimization analysis that considers not only crop yields but also water quantity and quality targets.

Integrating Water Management Practices with Modern Irrigation Technologies in Aalo, West Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh

This research addresses the imperative of harmonizing traditional water management practices with contemporary irrigation technologies to ensure sustainable water use in Aalo, West Siang District, Arunachal Pradesh. Given the pressing need to optimize water resources for agricultural pursuits while upholding environmental integrity and socio-economic progress, a multidisciplinary methodology is employed. Aalo faces multifaceted challenges such as water scarcity, erratic rainfall patterns, and escalating agricultural demands. While traditional water management methods have historically upheld agricultural livelihoods, the advent of modern irrigation technologies presents promising avenues for bolstering water efficiency, crop productivity, and sustainable development. Through a mixed-methods approach, including quantitative analysis, qualitative assessments, and participatory research methods, the study endeavors to comprehensively understand water management practices and irrigation technologies in Aalo. Surveys, interviews, and field observations will facilitate the assessment of traditional water management systems' efficacy in mitigating water scarcity and supporting agricultural productivity. Concurrently, the study will evaluate the adoption and impact of modern irrigation technologies on water use efficiency, crop yields, and socio-economic indicators in the region. Anticipated findings are poised to unveil synergies and prospects for integrating traditional wisdom with modern irrigation practices to fortify sustainability and resilience in water management. Consequently, the study will offer actionable recommendations targeted at policymakers, agricultural extension services, and local communities. These recommendations encompass preserving traditional water management systems, promoting the uptake of modern irrigation technologies, fostering knowledge exchange, capacity-building initiatives, and nurturing community engagement in water management endeavors. Through these initiatives, the research aims to foster a holistic approach towards sustainable water management practices in Aalo, poised at the nexus of traditional knowledge and contemporary innovation.

Water Resource Utilization Assessment in China Based on the Dynamic Relationship between Economic Growth and Water Use

Water scarcity has significantly hampered China’s economic, social, and environmental development. Ensuring sustainable water utilization is crucial given the mounting water stress accompanying continuous economic growth. A quantitative water resource forewarning model was constructed using the vector autoregressive (VAR) model. By analyzing the key indicators related to water systems and GDP data from 2001 to 2022, the VAR model revealed the long-term dynamic correlation between water consumption and economic growth using generalized impulse response, co-integration, and predictive variance decomposition analyses. The results revealed the presence of a long-term equilibrium between water consumption and economic growth, with a stable co-integration relationship and an optimal lag period of one year. The positive impact of water consumption on economic development increased during the 2001–2022 period, indicating a rising dependence of GDP on water resources. Water usage rose with economic development, while the water resource carrying capacity remained high and continued to grow. Based on the generalized impulse response, co-integration, and predictive variance decomposition analyses, this study predicted water-use-related indicators, providing vital early warnings for China’s water environment carrying capacity from 2023 to 2050. This enabled informed decision-making and fostered sustainable water management practices for the future.

An analytical review on the integrated management of river resources through Namami Gange

ABSTRACT The Ganga basin is witnessing accelerated deterioration of agricultural fields, with severe soil erosion leading to nutrients leaching into the river, wreaking havoc on the river's ecosystems. Many Ganga River management plans have been implemented in the past, but a more coordinated and integrated effort that tries to implement basin management strategies with technology preparedness considered critical for the preservation of agricultural regions had been lacking. The Namami Gange Program (NGP) is a first of its kind integrated conservation mission pillared on sustainable water management policies and practices, launched in 2014. Unfortunately, scientific literature on its overall functioning and progress is almost non-existent. This review presents its overall functioning, critically analyses its associated components, and presents case studies, pilot studies, along with analytical critiques. An objective analytical evaluation of the NGP has been provided concluding with sectoral interventions. We have concluded that the ambitions for boosting energy production, irrigation, manufacturing, and expanding the river as an inland waterway interfere with the Ganga cleanup because they are both part of the growth strategy pushed by the administration.