Water, Water Everywhere (or, Seeing Is Believing): The Visibility of Water Supply and the Public Will for Conservation

2017 ◽  
Vol 12 (3) ◽  
pp. 219-245 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kate Pride Brown
Keyword(s):  
Water Resources ◽  
Water Supply ◽  
Water Conservation ◽  
Qualitative Interviews ◽  
Apparent Contradiction ◽  
The Public ◽  
Conservation Policies ◽  
Material Conditions ◽  
Visual Impacts ◽  
Motivating Factor

Why do some arid locations persist in having weak water conservation policies? And why do some wetter locales implement comparatively strong conservation requirements? Based upon 43 qualitative interviews with water stakeholders in four selected cities (Atlanta, Phoenix, San Antonio, Tampa), this article puts forward one contributing factor to explain this apparent contradiction: the variable “visibility” of stressed water resources. The material conditions of different water sources (e.g., groundwater, surface water) and geologies (i.e., during droughts or during flooding) provide variable opportunities to “see” water scarcity. The visual impacts of shrinking water resources can become a major motivating factor in the general public for increased water conservation. However, water supply is often physically invisible. In these circumstances, the image of water supply may be intentionally conjured in the public mind to produce similar concern. Assured, steady supply, on the other hand, can dampen the public will for strong conservation policy.

The Observation of Rainwater Harvesting Potential in Mahasarakham University (Khamriang Campus)

2013 ◽  
Vol 807-809 ◽  
pp. 1087-1092 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nida Chaimoon
Keyword(s):  
Water Resources ◽  
Water Supply ◽  
Water Conservation ◽  
Rainwater Harvesting ◽  
Flow Analysis ◽  
Treatment Plant ◽  
Drainage System ◽  
Material Flow Analysis ◽  
Sustainable Living ◽  
Water Treatment Cost

Rainwater harvesting from roof is considered as valuable water resources. Material Flow Analysis (MFA) of water in Mahasarakham University (Khamriang Campus) shows that rainwater harvesting from roof can reduce water supply production by 7% and save more than 200,000 Bt/year for water treatment cost. The sensitivity analysis suggests that by 5% water supply conservation and 20% additional rainwater harvesting, MSU could have enough water resources. The rainwater is suitable to be substituted water for gardening due to the convenience to assemble an above ground storage tank or a pond to store harvested rainwater from roof. The current practice of rainwater is collected and discharged into drainage system and treated in wastewater treatment plant. Utilisation of rainwater harvested could reduce wastewater amount that must be treated by 9%. Rainwater harvesting and reuse should be promoted in campus in order to encourage sustainable living and water conservation policy.

Emergency water supply decision-making of transboundary river basin considering government–public perceived satisfaction

2021 ◽  
Vol 40 (1) ◽  
pp. 381-401
Author(s):  
Weiwei Wang ◽  
Haiwei Zhou ◽  
Lidan Guo
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Water Resources ◽  
Water Supply ◽  
River Basin ◽  
Decision Makers ◽  
Transboundary Water ◽  
The Public ◽  
Transboundary Water Resources ◽  
Perceived Satisfaction ◽  
Emergency Water Supply

The emergency supply of transboundary water resources is a prominent problem affecting the social and economic development of basin countries. However, current water supply decisions on transboundary water resources may ignore the psychological perception of multi-stakeholders, and the evolution of emergencies increases the uncertainty of decision making. Both factors would lead to the low acceptance of water-related decisions. Utility satisfaction, perceived losses, and quantity satisfaction were selected in this paper to identify the perceived satisfaction of upstream governments, downstream governments, and the public, respectively, over multiple decision-making stages. A modeling framework combining prospect theory and the multi-stage multi-objective programming methodology was then developed to measure the perceived satisfaction of different stakeholders in a watershed under emergency. A two-stage NSGA-II and TOPSIS based approach was adopted to find the optimal compromise solution to solve the model. The framework was applied in the Lancang–Mekong River basin to provide suggestions to decision makers. Upstream decision makers must choose a moderate proportional fairness degree when making emergency decisions to maximize the perceived satisfaction of all stakeholders. Meanwhile, the perceived loss of downstream countries with low water demand should be considered first in the formulation of emergency water supply plans. Furthermore, although water supply from upstream countries can improve perceived water quantity satisfaction of downstream publics, additional actions must still be taken to change the traditional concepts of the public.

Correlation between Grain Production and the Water Supply in Yunnan

2014 ◽  
Vol 501-504 ◽  
pp. 1977-1980
Author(s):  
Jian Xiong Wang ◽  
Pan Li
Keyword(s):  
Water Resources ◽  
Water Supply ◽  
Water Conservation ◽  
Food Production ◽  
Supply And Demand ◽  
Grain Production ◽  
Agricultural Water ◽  
Regional Food ◽  
Agricultural Water Use ◽  
Stable Yield

In recent years in yunnan province grain production increase in volatility,The high and stable yield of grain without good irrigation. Agriculture is water conservation, Industrial and agricultural water use ratio is about 1:4 in China, the main contradiction of supply and demand of water resources in agriculture.Due to other reasons, agricultural water supply reliability will be further reduced.In the case of agricultural water situation has deteriorated, in order to ensure and enlarge the scale of regional food production,urgently needs to research and develop to solve the contradictory between food production and supply of water resources in this area.

scholarly journals The optimal allocation of water resources oriented to prioritizing ecological needs using multiple schemes in the Shaying River Basin (Henan Section), China

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hang Li ◽  
Xiao-Ning Qu ◽  
Jie Tao ◽  
Chang-Hong Hu ◽  
Qi-Ting Zuo
Keyword(s):  
Water Resources ◽  
Water Supply ◽  
River Basin ◽  
Water Conservation ◽  
Water Demand ◽  
Optimal Allocation ◽  
Supply And Demand ◽  
Allocation Model ◽  
Water Supply And Demand ◽  
Ecological Objectives

Abstract China is actively exploring water resources management considering ecological priorities. The Shaying River Basin (Henan Section) serves as an important grain production base in China. However, conflicts for water between humans and the environment are becoming increasingly prominent. The present study analyzed the optimal allocation of water while considering ecological priorities in the Shaying River Basin (Henan Section). The ecological water demand was calculated by the Tennant and the representative station methods; then, based on the predicted water supply and demand in 2030, an optimal allocation model was established, giving priority to meeting ecological objectives while including social and comprehensive economic benefit objectives. After solving the model, the optimal results of three established schemes were obtained. This revealed that scheme 1 and scheme 2 failed to satisfy the water demand of the study area in 2030 by only the current conditions and strengthening water conservation, respectively. Scheme 3 was the best scheme, which could balance the water supply and demand by adding new water supply based on strengthening water conservation and maximizing the benefits. Therefore, the actual water allocation in 2030 is forecast to be 7.514 billion (7.514 × 109) m3. This study could help basin water management departments deal with water use and supply.

scholarly journals Water quota system in China: problems and countermeasures

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ziyang Zhao ◽  
Hongrui Wang ◽  
Shuxin Gong ◽  
Cheng Wang
Keyword(s):  
Water Resources ◽  
Water Conservation ◽  
Sustainable Use ◽  
Water Shortage ◽  
Social Progress ◽  
Practical Significance ◽  
Quota System ◽  
Water Shortages ◽  
Conservation Policies ◽  
Data Validity

Abstract Water resources are the foundation of economic development, social progress and ecological security, and water shortage is the primary problem facing China. Water quotas have great practical significance for the resolution of water shortages to achieve sustainable use of water resources and sustainable development of the national economy. In this study, to analyse the problems and countermeasures of the water quota system in China, the water quota system progress domestically and abroad, the water quotas problem in China, and the countermeasures for the water quota problem are summarized. The data validity test, spatial correlation test and consistency test are used to test the rationality of water use quota. And the specific countermeasures are presented: improving the water quota system, defining its concept, and revising its scheme, etc. This study provides the support to standardize water quotas and implement the effective water conservation policies of China.

Singapore's Marina Barrage - Changing Mindsets in Urban Solutions

2009 ◽  
Vol 4 (4) ◽  
Author(s):  
Brendan M. Harley ◽  
Yap Kheng Guan
Keyword(s):  
Water Resources ◽  
Water Supply ◽  
Flood Control ◽  
Integrated Water Resources Management ◽  
Urban Environments ◽  
Living Environment ◽  
Public Works ◽  
The Public ◽  
The Many ◽  
The City

Singapore's water resources system is a strong illustration of the value of an integrated water resources management in urban enviroments. Today, urban water resources planning and environmental engineering are essential partners in the planning of tomorrow's urban environments - and not just as passive projects unnoticed by the public. In Singapore we can see the specific evolution from the separate development of water catchments and the control of monsoon flooding to the integrated water management strategy as exemplified today in the Marina Barrage. The multi-purpose project boosts Singapore's water supply by creating its first reservoir in the city, helps flood control and enhances the living environment of the city. Marina Barrage presented many interesting challenges in the development of a project whose impact was designed to far transcend the normal functional aspect of a large public works project. This paper will present the many potential public uses that were considered in the planning for the final facility. The motivation is that the 3P (people, public and private) sectors play an important part in sustaining water resources. Instead of designing the Marina Barrage as a conventional functional facility accessible only to operational staff, the project breaks new ground in taking an unconventional design approach. The facility was designed as an open facility to engage and inspire the public to care for water. Features for public education, lifestyle attraction, eating experiences, options for families to relax, play areas for children, attractions for overseas visitors, spaces for dedicated conferences and many more were considered. A multi-functional team of interior designers, landscape architects, researchers, art specialists, lighting specialists, environmentalists, etc was assembled and met continually as the design evolved. These evolving goals had to be integrated into the overall functional characteristics of the barrage. The resulting project is a world-class example of how a project initially conceived for water resources functional purpose can evolve not just into an iconic structure but one whose multi-functional capabilities have attracted huge attention from tourists and the people of Singapore. This is evidenced by more than 250,000 people visiting the facility in its first 6 months of operations, and the many families who spend relaxing time enjoying the various spaces at the Barrage. The evolution of the Marina Barrage in design and operation can act as a lesson for other cities considering similar large flood control or water supply projects. The success of the Marina Barrage's 3P mission indicates how for a relatively little increase in cost these facilities can play a major role in enhancing urban lifestyle in sustainable cities.

Analisis Neraca Air dan Prasarana Tampungan Air di DAS Ciujung

2021 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 227-235
Author(s):  
Yulia Dwi Kurniasari ◽  
Hadi Susilo Arifin ◽  
Muhammad Yanuar Purwanto
Keyword(s):  
Water Resources ◽  
Water Supply ◽  
Water Consumption ◽  
Water Availability ◽  
Water Conservation ◽  
Water Storage ◽  
Water Demands ◽  
Consumption Index ◽  
Per Capita ◽  
Availability Index

Peningkatan jumlah penduduk, laju pertumbuhan ekonomi dan pengembangan wilayah berdampak pada kondisi sumber daya air. Keterbatasan prasarana tampungan air menjadi penyebab pentingnya distribusi sumber daya air secara berkelanjutan. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengetahui kondisi neraca air dan prasarana tampungan air yang ada di DAS Ciujung. Metode yang digunakan adalah menghitung kebutuhan dan ketersediaan air, Neraca surplus-defisit, Indeks Pemakaian Air (IPA) dan Indeks ketersediaan air per kapita berdasarkan metode SNI 6728.1.2015 serta indikator tampungan air. Ketersediaan air dihitung berdasarkan debit andalan 80% (Q80). Kebutuhan air dihitung dari kebutuhan rumah tangga, perkotaan, industri (RKI), irigasi, peternakan, perikanan dan pemeliharaan sungai. Prasarana tampungan air dihitung melalui indikator tampungan bangunan konservasi air yang ada. Hasil analisis menunjukkan bahwa kebutuhan air di DAS Ciujung sebesar 37,52 m3/detik sedangkan ketersediaan airnya sebesar 36,57 m3/detik. Hal ini mengindikasikan adanya defisit air sebesar 0,95 m3/detik. Indeks Pemakaian Air sebesar 1,03 (kategori jelek). Indeks ketersediaan air per kapita sebesar 623,05 (indikasi kelangkaan air). Sedangkan indikator tampungan air sebesar 31,34% (kategori baik).  ABSTRACTThe population growth, the rapid rate of economic growth and regional development will have an impact on the condition of water resources. Limited water storage infrastructure is the importance cause of allocating water resources. The objective of study is to know the water balance and water storage infrastructure in Ciujung Watershed. The analysis methods was used to calculate the amount of water supply and demand, to calculate the surplus-deficit balance, Water Consumption index (IPA), Water Availability Index per Capita refers to SNI 6728.1.2015 and water storage indicator. Water supply calculation based on the mainstay discharge of 80% (Q80). Water demands calculation from the demand of households, cities and industries (RKI), irrigation, livestock, fisheries and river maintenance. Capacity of existing water conservation storage used to predict the water storage infrastructure. The results of analysis show that the water demands in Ciujung Watershed is 37,52 m3/second, while the water supply is 36,57 m3/second. This indicates there is a water deficit of 0,95 m3/second. According to calculation, Water Consumption Index is 1,03 (bad category), It resulted that Water availability index per capita is 623,05 (water scarcity indicator). On the other hand, Indicator for water storage is 31,34% (good category).

scholarly journals The politics of water conservation: identifying and overcoming barriers to successful policies

Water Policy ◽  
2016 ◽  
Vol 19 (2) ◽  
pp. 304-321 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kate Pride Brown ◽  
David J. Hess
Keyword(s):  
Water Supply ◽  
Water Conservation ◽  
Political Process ◽  
Environmental Benefits ◽  
The Political ◽  
Political Factors ◽  
Conservation Policies ◽  
Potential Efficacy ◽  
End Use ◽  
Growth Coalition

Policies that increase the reliance of a water-supply organization (WSO) on water conservation have economic and environmental benefits, but some cities and WSOs have been reluctant to pursue such policies to their full extent. Previous research has identified barriers such as WSOs’ concerns with revenue loss and consumers’ concerns with changes in lifestyle. Based on interviews in four US cities with representatives of local business, government, water supply, environmental and other organizations, our research shows how the reluctance to pursue water conservation policies (WCPs) to their fullest extent is also related to more general political factors. We bring together growth coalition theory and sociotechnical transition theory to show how opposition varies by type of water conservation policy, including the distinction between mandates and flexible policies and between end-use policies and infrastructure policies. This approach shows how the transition to higher levels of water conservation is a political process, and we argue that understanding both the political process and the political meanings of different WCPs provides insights into strategies and their potential efficacy.

scholarly journals Water Resources and the Problem of Externalities

2020 ◽  
pp. 60-67
Author(s):  
B.H. Yerznkyan ◽  
K.A. Fontana
Keyword(s):  
Wastewater Treatment ◽  
Water Resources ◽  
Water Supply ◽  
Circular Economy ◽  
Point Of View ◽  
Alternative Methods ◽  
Market Failures ◽  
Negative Externalities ◽  
The Public ◽  
Global Challenges

When managing water resources as an integral part of urban management, unforeseen situations, particularly related to the occurrence of side effects (externalities), often arise. Such effects aggravate the environmental situation and exacerbate global challenges to humanity in the field of water supply and rational use of water resources, including through the introduction of alternative methods of water supply. Providing water to the parties involved and their use by them can lead to externalities – both positive and negative. Problems usually arise in the situation with negative externalities, the elimination or mitigation of which necessitates technological and institutional solutions. The first solutions concern technical methods, such as wastewater treatment, for example, and their repeated or better regular reuse, as it is practiced in the circular economy, the second ones affect institutional solutions that can be divided into three types from a theoretical and methodological point of view. These include: 1) government intervention (practiced in a situation of «market failures»); 2) a Coasen solution (involving market contracting between producers and consumers of negative externalities); 3) a hybrid way of problem solving (combining the market efforts of the parties involved and non-market activities of organizations interested in the public good).

scholarly journals Study on the organization of water-conservation activities and guiding strategies for urban communities based on public participation in China

2020 ◽  
Vol 69 (6) ◽  
pp. 538-554
Author(s):  
Binxia Xue ◽  
Tongyu Li ◽  
Xiaohe Hou ◽  
Jiayi Guo
Keyword(s):  
Public Participation ◽  
Urban Communities ◽  
Water Conservation ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
Management Strategies ◽  
Economic Benefits ◽  
Water Shortages ◽  
The Public ◽  
Conservation Policies ◽  
Human Needs

Abstract Water shortages and pollution in China are severe situations caused by rapid economic development and urbanization. The current water-conservation policies focus on implementing new technologies and management strategies at important spatial nodes while neglecting the significance of the response from the community and the public. In this paper, the elements that influence the public participation of water conservation within the community are analyzed and divided into three levels: the internal world elements of the residents, the different individual characters of the residents, and external world elements. Among these three levels, the internal world element level, including the desire to realize oneself, is crucial, as it will significantly strengthen an individual's participation activity once motivated. Based on Maslow's five-level theory of human needs, to establish a model of public participation in water-conservation communities, economic benefits, environmental improvement benefits, and the self-fulfilling satisfaction of participation will become the motivation for the model to function. In a new project, reclaimed water landscapes are established in the community, and eco-recreational activities with water-conservation themes are organized to guide and encourage public participation to foster water-conservation consciousness and to establish aging water-conservation guiding policies and implementation methods in the community.

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