Syllabus Edition
First teaching 2015
Last exams 2025
Sustainable Management of Fresh Water Resources (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))
Revision Note
Written by: Alistair Marjot
Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett
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
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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