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FS 3.193

Water Management in Mountain Socio-Ecological-Technological Systems

Details

Full Title
FS 3.193: Water Management in Mountain Socio-Ecological-Technological Systems under Climate Change
Scheduled
TBA
Location
TBA
Convener
Blal Adem Esmail
Co-Conveners
Giacomo Bertoldi, Navneet Kumar, Stefan Schneiderbauer, Stefano Terzi,
Assigned to Synthesis Workshop
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Thematic Focus
Cryo- & Hydrosphere, Hazards, Socio-Ecology, Sustainable Development, Water Resources
Keywords
Hydrological modelling, Climate change impacts, Water Energy Food, Participatory scenario planning, Adaptive water management

Description

Mountain “water towers“ are essential for sustaining ecosystems and communities, supporting biodiversity, agriculture, energy, and cultural practices. Climate change disrupts these systems by altering precipitation patterns and increasing snow and glacial melt, leading to conflicts over water use and heightened risks of droughts and floods. Mountains represent vital socio-ecological systems where interactions between people and nature thrive. Sustainable integration of technological systems like dams and recreational facilities can help address societal challenges and promote climate change adaptation. This session explores the socio-ecological-technological systems (SETS) of mountain regions, emphasizing water’s central role in resilience and adaptability. Bridging social, ecological, and technological dimensions, the SETS framework provides a comprehensive approach to understanding how stakeholders – from local communities to policymakers-perceive and manage water resources, highlighting the need for adaptable models and participatory planning. Key topics include:

Conceptual socio-hydrological models to reveal feedback loops between human activities, ecological processes, and water resources.
Climate change impacts on hydrological processes and the need for advanced data and modelling to forecast future conditions.
Integrating hydrological insights into participatory planning that incorporates local knowledge, technology, and ecological values.
Global and transboundary water management in mountain regions.
Cryospheric changes and their impact on downstream communities.
Upstream-downstream interactions and water use conflicts.

Submitted Abstracts

ID: 3.9179

Assessing Water Scarcity Risks in Socio-Ecological-Technological Systems: A Case Study of the Greater Asmara Area Water Supply System

Blal Adem Esmail
Bertoldi, Giacomo; Galletti, Andrea; Formetta, Giuseppe; Kumar, Navneet; Romagnoli, Federica; Teklemariam, Medhanie; Schneiderbauer, Stefan

Abstract/Description

Water scarcity is an increasingly pressing global issue, particularly affecting mountain regions vulnerable to climate change. Understanding water scarcity risks within socio-ecological-technological systems (SETS) is crucial for identifying the multifaceted impacts across watersheds, infrastructure, and water management systems. This study delves into the water scarcity risks in the Greater Asmara Area in Eritrea, a metropolitan region with a unique topographical setting where water must be pumped to a plateau, further compounded by rapid urbanization and severe watershed degradation. To comprehensively address this issue, our research adopts an integrated approach. We combine Impact Chain – a conceptual tool for mapping risk components and their interactions—with hydrological modelling using the GEOframe system to quantify trends in water availability. Additionally, stakeholder s engagement is a key component of our methodology, employed to systematically map societal challenges, validate the findings, and identify context-specific and actionable climate adaptation strategies. The analysis focuses on the exposure of households, industries, and institutions served by both centralized “Town systems” and decentralized “On-site systems” for water supply, highlighting the disparities between formal and informal water access. The study identifies critical vulnerabilities within the Greater Asmara Area water supply system, including land degradation, infrastructure inefficiencies, inequitable access to water, and increased exposure due to rapid urbanization. It highlights interaction between the risk components and their impact on water resources. Furthermore, the study lays the groundwork for co-creating scenario storylines that inform long-term urban water strategies in the Greater Asmara Area. The findings emphasize the need for nature-based solutions and ecosystem-based adaptation measures to mitigate water scarcity and enhance climate resilience. By integrating quantitative hydrological modelling with qualitative stakeholder insights, this research underscores the values of SETS-based frameworks for addressing complex water security challenges and offers actionable insights for improving water security and fostering sustainable climate adaptation in vulnerable urban regions.

ID: 3.9310

The footprint of Climate and land-use changes on Iranian mountainous area

Hamidreza Solaymani

Abstract/Description

Climate and land-use changes have significant impacts on Iranian forests in mountainous areas, affecting soil quality, vegetation growth, and biodiversity. This research study suggests that the changes lead to soil organic carbon reduction, increased risk of habitat loss, and extinction risk for various species, particularly in regions such as Zagrosa and Alborz mountainous areas. The results reveal a wide-spread agricultural expansion (27,000 km2) and a significant cultivation intensification (48,000 km2). At the same time, we observe a substantial decline in total water storage that is not represented by a decrease of meteorological water input, confirming an unsustainable use of groundwater mainly for agricultural irrigation. As consequence of water scarcity, we identify agricultural areas with a loss or reduction of vegetation growth (10,000 km2), especially in irrigated agricultural areas under (hyper-)arid conditions. In Iran’s natural biomes, the results show declining trends in vegetation growth and land cover degradation from sparse vegetation to barren land in 40,000 km2, mainly along the western plains and foothills of the Zagros Mountains, and at the same time wide-spread greening trends, particularly in regions of higher altitudes. Overall, the findings provide detailed insights in vegetation-related causes and consequences of Iran’s anthropogenic drought and can support sustainable management plans for Iran or other semi-arid regions worldwide, often facing similar conditions.

ID: 3.9473

Sustainable Energy in the Alps: Micro-Hydroelectric Systems and Cooperative Water Management

Gio Lodovico Baglioni

Abstract/Description

Climate change poses significant challenges to water management in mountain regions, particularly in the Alps and pre-Alps, where small, isolated communities rely on limited resources for energy and water. This study explores the feasibility of implementing micro-hydroelectric systems in these areas, focusing on small streams with no fish populations, as a sustainable solution for energy production without compromising ecological integrity. In many Alpine communities, such as the one described in this case study, small streams remain underutilized. These streams, often devoid of fish due to natural or anthropogenic factors, present an opportunity for decentralized energy production through micro-hydroelectric plants. By strategically placing small-scale hydroelectric systems along these streams, local families can generate renewable energy to meet local needs while minimizing environmental impact. To ensure ecological sustainability, this study proposes specific technical limitations for such installations: installed power <20 kW, water flow <50 liters/second, and a maximum height difference (head) of <50 meters. These constraints are designed to prevent overexploitation of water resources and protect local ecosystems. A cooperative or associative approach is proposed for the units/families involved along the watercourse. This model encourages collaboration among local stakeholders, ensuring equitable distribution of benefits and shared responsibility for maintenance and environmental stewardship. Such an approach not only fosters community engagement but also enhances the long-term viability of the project. This proposal highlights the socio-ecological-technological (SET) framework necessary for such projects, emphasizing the integration of local knowledge, ecological conservation, and innovative technology. The aim is to foster international dialogue on overcoming legal barriers and promoting sustainable water management practices in mountain regions globally. The findings suggest that micro-hydroelectric systems, when carefully designed and implemented within the proposed technical limits and through a cooperative approach, can provide a viable energy solution for small Alpine communities, contributing to climate resilience and sustainable development. This abstract invites further discussion on the potential for scaling such projects within the broader context of mountain socio-ecological-technological systems under climate change.

ID: 3.9857

Terrace rice farming: a sustainable water management and sustainable farming technique used in Nepal

Rajendra Uprety

Abstract/Description

Every year, more people migrate from the hills and mountains to the Terai, and most cite water scarcity as the primary reason for their relocation. It puts livelihoods in the hills at risk. The highlands of Nepal were well-known a few decades ago for their terraced rice fields and sustainable means of subsistence. Rice planting on terraces was a major source of sustainable livelihoods and food grain production. Terrace rice farming activated entire water systems, managed downstream water flows, and replenished aquafers with stagnant water for rice. Following the reduction of terrace rice cultivation regions in the hills, downstream water flows have been affected and dried out because of the damaged water recharge system. It has multiplier effects on farming systems, drinking water availability and whole livelihoods of hills’ communities. However, the majority of farmers who continue to cultivate rice use native rice varieties in the hills and regulate nutrients using organic manures and compost that may be found nearby. Local varieties and nature-based cultivation yield premium rice that is healthier and of greater quality, fetching a higher price and generating more income. Every year, the improved road system in the Nepalese hills expands the market for hills agricultural products and raises their prices. Realize that by reviving terrace-based rice farming, turning on water recharge systems, and improving overall agriculture, we can improve livelihoods in Nepal’s hills and mountains as well as other similar agroecological regions worldwide.

ID: 3.10013

Monitoring, participating, and communicating mountain hazards: lessons from recent snow droughts in the Italian Alps

Francesco Avanzi
Mantini, Marina; Marighella, Annalisa; Porcu, Silvia; Dalmas, Ilaria; Salvioli Mariani, Luca; Caporlingua, Marina; Finizio, Michela; Galimberti, Luca; Cotugno, Ferdinando; Farina, Sofia; Bassetto, Giulia; Grazzini, Federico; Lozito, Nicolas; Massa, Marco; Sand, Haakon; Rossi, Ludovica; Breeze, Nick; Cremonese, Edoardo; Gabellani, Simone; Galvagno, Marta; Favre, Sara; Pogliotti, Paolo; Morra di Cella, Umberto; Rossi, Lauro; Ferraris, Luca

Abstract/Description

Recent winters saw extreme drought across the Italian Alps, with Snow Water Equivalent at peak accumulation dropping by 60% compared to recent years. This snow deficit, combined with low precipitation and high temperatures, led to historic water supply lows in the Po River Basin during summer 2022. In response, CIMA Research Foundation launched a communication campaign to raise awareness of the ongoing snow drought and its implications for water security and water management. Starting with social media posts on platforms like Twitter/X and LinkedIn, the initiative gained traction and evolved into widespread media coverage, including newspapers, TV, blogs, podcasts, and official reports. As of today, this effort has translated into a periodical bulletin on CIMA’s website, posts on Twitter/X, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, a dedicated newsletter and web page. Central to this effort is the S3M Italy & IT-SNOW monitoring system, which provides approximately 500-meter resolution daily maps of SWE, snow depth, bulk snow density, and liquid water content. S3M Italy & IT-SNOW integrate data from thousands of automatic weather stations, snow-covered area maps from Sentinel-2 and MODIS satellites, and in situ snow depth measurements from over 350 sensors, offering a comprehensive and detailed assessment of snow conditions across Italy. This case study examines the attention gained by the campaign, highlighting lessons learned at the science-media-policy interface. Effective communication relied on key messages, consistent updates, visual identity, and simplicity. A two-step model proved essential, where scientists created content that mediators—such as journalists or organizations—shared with the public. Building trust between scientists and mediators was key to amplifying the message among stakeholders. The campaign continues into 2024/2025, addressing the growing impacts of warming and aridity on snow conditions. It underscores the importance of credible information and aims to enhance public awareness of the challenges posed by climate change.

ID: 3.11718

SWACH: Sustainable Water Management under Climate Change Scenarios in Southern Ecuador

Ana Ochoa-Sánchez
Crespo, Patricio; Willems, Patrick; Célleri, Rolando; Guzmán, Pablo; Alvarado-Carrión, María; Ochoa, Johanna; García, Jorge; Timbe, Edison; Núñez, Santiago; Rodas, Verónica; Guerrero, Rigoberto; Peña, Santiago

Abstract/Description

Anthropogenic climate change has placed enormous pressure on water security in mountain cities. Cuenca, is a middle-size city that has lived with sufficient quality and quantity of water in the past; however, recent drought events have increased in magnitude and frequency. Climate change, population demand and the lack of water management adaptation strategies are to blame. Therefore, we started a project two years ago called SWACH. SWACH aims at finding adaptation strategies to face climate change impacts in water availability. One aspect of the project focuses on providing climate change projections of precipitation and temperature, hydrological projections and population increase towards 2100 to understand how climate change will influence water availability in the most important catchment that provides half of the drinking water for the city. Then a second aspect of the project is to find adaptation strategies focusing on the offer and demand for drinking water. A pilot project works with three neighbourhoods in the city to understand their water use habits and reduce water consumption. On the other hand, we work with the water company of the city to find strategies that optimize the water system. Water availability issues are social, political and technical, therefore, SWACH aims for a transdisciplinary approach that enables cooperation among the academy, decision-makers, policy-makers and citizens to work together to face climate change.

ID: 3.13542

Monsoonal precipitation on steep vegetated slopes: an opportunity for simplified hydrologic modeling in some upland catchments

Randall Ritzema

Abstract/Description

Formulation of water management strategies in upper catchments in monsoonal climates, particularly when considering the effects of land use change on water flows and catchment yield, requires spatial and temporal evaluation of water balance components. Beyond simple water balance estimations, integrated hydrologic modeling is highly useful but is typically inhibited by lack of data, particularly when estimating sub-surface water flows in sloping lands. However, in some situations, environmental characteristics allow for parsimonious water flow process representations with less stringent input data requirements. This study highlights an example of how key environmental characteristics in a study site in the uplands of Lao PDR, namely monsoonal precipitation on steep vegetated terrain, together define hydrologic regimes that allow for simplified modeling representations of sub-surface water flows, in both the unsaturated and saturated zones, that require minimal input parameters and calibration effort. Because sub-surface flows define dry season surface flows, proper estimation improves year-round water availability estimates. These simplified modeling representations may enable hydrologic modeling efforts more widely across montane Southeast Asia and in other mountainous regions with similar environmental characteristics.

ID: 3.13797

A socio-hydrological analysis of the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems Nexus in a mountain catchment in Northern Italy

Enrico Lucca
Sušnik, Janez; Castelli, Giulio; Wenninger, Jochen; Villani, Lorenzo; Piemontese, Luigi; Masia, Sara; Fantini, Emanuele; Bresci, Elena

Abstract/Description

Once water-abundant, parts of the Alps are now experiencing more frequent water scarcity and drought conditions, impacting both human activities and ecosystems. In addition to lower water availability due to climate change, water scarcity is also strongly shaped by how water resources are allocated, used and managed. It thus represents a socio-hydrological phenomenon that concerns all sectors reliant on water and their interdependencies, i.e., the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystems (WEFE) Nexus. While previous research on the WEFE Nexus in water-scarce contexts have primarily focused on hydrological analysis, this study employs a mixed method approach to reveal hydrological, social and governance conditions that jointly contribute to water scarcity. The approach is applied to the Orco catchment, a sub-basin of the Po River in Northern Italy, characterised by significant storage capacity in hydropower reservoirs in the highlands and large irrigation withdrawals in the lowlands. The qualitative analysis consists of mapping the interrelationships – synergies, trade-offs and feedback loops – between sectoral water users, water resources, and governance systems through the Causal Loop Diagram and the Network of Action Situation methods. On a quantitative level, a water resources management model of the Orco catchment is developed and used to simulate water allocation strategies across sectors for the period 2011 – 2022. Results show that irrigation needs were only fully met in a few years and that the upstream-downstream positioning influenced the frequency and intensity of water shortages, as well as the impact of prioritising environmental flows on water withdrawals by different irrigation districts. Water stored in hydropower reservoirs could potentially help mitigate irrigation water deficits in late July and August, resulting however in a reduction of hydropower production in winter months. Furthermore, addressing water scarcity would require overcoming socio-economic barriers associated with current agricultural practices, a radical transformation of the irrigation distribution system, the adaptation of withdrawal permits to a changing climate and further cooperation between upstream and downstream water users. Nevertheless, signs of cooperation were already found in the Orco watershed, indicating the willingness of the local community to address the issue of water scarcity collectively.

FS 3.192: Generating and integrating interdisciplinary data to understand mountain socio-ecological dynamics and support multi-scale policy formulation

FS 3.194: Practical education climate-smart technologies in the foothills of Georgia

#IMC: September 14 - 18 2025

FS 3.193

Water Management in Mountain Socio-Ecological-Technological Systems

Details

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Assigned to Synthesis Workshop

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Keywords

Description

Submitted Abstracts

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