Water Security Management Strategies (Cambridge (CIE) AS Environmental Management)

Revision Note

Alistair Marjot

Written by: Alistair Marjot

Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett

Managing Water Security

Sustainable Management of Fresh Water Resources

  • Fresh water supplies can be enhanced through various strategies that promote sustainable management of freshwater resources

Strategies Used to Enhance Fresh Water Supplies

Strategy

Description

How strategy enhances freshwater supplies

Reservoirs

Construction of reservoirs helps store water during periods of high rainfall for use during dry seasons

Reservoirs regulate water flow, ensuring a consistent supply for agriculture, industry and domestic use - they also provide opportunities for hydropower generation, contributing to renewable energy production

Redistribution

Efficient water redistribution systems, such as canals and pipelines, can transfer water from water-rich regions to areas experiencing scarcity

Redistributing water resources can help balance supply and demand, particularly in densely populated or arid regions

Desalination

Desalination processes remove salt and other impurities from seawater or brackish water, making it suitable for various purposes

Desalination technologies, such as reverse osmosis and distillation, provide an alternative water source in coastal regions with limited freshwater availability

Artificial recharge of aquifers

Artificial recharge involves injecting treated or excess water into aquifers, replenishing underground water storage

Recharging aquifers helps prevent groundwater depletion and maintains a sustainable supply of water for wells and springs

Rainwater harvesting

Rainwater harvesting captures and stores rainwater runoff from rooftops, landscapes and other surfaces

Collected rainwater can be used for non-potable purposes like irrigation, toilet flushing and cleaning, reducing the strain on freshwater sources - it also mitigates stormwater runoff, helping reduce flooding and erosion

  • There are also some other key considerations for sustainable freshwater management:

   1. Conservation and efficient water use

  • Promoting water conservation practices, such as using water-efficient appliances, fixing leaks and adopting sustainable irrigation techniques, to reduce water wastage

  • Public awareness campaigns and education initiatives can encourage responsible water use

   2. Water recycling and re-use

  • Implementing grey water recycling and re-use systems to treat wastewater to a safe level for various non-potable purposes, such as irrigation, industrial processes and toilet flushing

  • This practice reduces freshwater demand, minimises pollution and maximises water-resource utilisation

  • Water conservation and grey water recycling can both help to reduce demand but often require a change in attitude by the water consumers, which can take a long time and substantial effort to achieve

   3. Sustainable agricultural practices

  • Encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices, such as precision irrigation techniques, crop rotation and efficient fertiliser use, reduces water consumption and minimises runoff

   4. Protecting ecosystems and natural water sources

  • Preserving and restoring natural ecosystems, such as wetlands and forests, helps maintain water quality, regulate water flow, and support biodiversity

  • Establishing protected areas around water sources safeguards them from pollution and overuse

Using a Combined Approach

  • Sustainable management of freshwater resources requires a combination of strategies to enhance water supplies

  • Reservoirs, redistribution, desalination, artificial recharge of aquifers and rainwater harvesting offer effective approaches to increase water availability

  • However, these measures should be complemented by conservation practices, recycling and reuse, sustainable agriculture and ecosystem protection

  • By adopting a comprehensive and balanced approach, societies can ensure the sustainable use of freshwater resources, promote resilience and address the challenges of water scarcity

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Alistair Marjot

Author: Alistair Marjot

Expertise: Biology & Environmental Systems and Societies

Alistair graduated from Oxford University with a degree in Biological Sciences. He has taught GCSE/IGCSE Biology, as well as Biology and Environmental Systems & Societies for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. While teaching in Oxford, Alistair completed his MA Education as Head of Department for Environmental Systems & Societies. Alistair has continued to pursue his interests in ecology and environmental science, recently gaining an MSc in Wildlife Biology & Conservation with Edinburgh Napier University.

Bridgette Barrett

Author: Bridgette Barrett

Expertise: Geography Lead

After graduating with a degree in Geography, Bridgette completed a PGCE over 25 years ago. She later gained an MA Learning, Technology and Education from the University of Nottingham focussing on online learning. At a time when the study of geography has never been more important, Bridgette is passionate about creating content which supports students in achieving their potential in geography and builds their confidence.