IHE Delft PhD Thesis Series – serie
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223 produkter
223 produkter
Developing an Impact-Based Combined Drought Index for Monitoring Crop Yield Anomalies in the Upper Blue Nile Basin, Ethiopia
Häftad, Engelska, 2018
725 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Having a robust drought monitoring system for Ethiopia is crucial to mitigate the adverse impacts of droughts. Yet, such monitoring system still lacks in Ethiopia, and in the Upper Blue Nile (UBN) basin in particular. Several drought indices exist to monitor drought, however, these indices are unable, individually, to provide concise information on the occurrence of meteorological, agricultural and hydrological droughts. A combined drought index (CDI) using several meteorological, agricultural and hydrological drought indices can indicate the occurrence of all drought types, and can provide information that facilitates the drought management decision-making process. This thesis proposes an impact-based combined drought index (CDI) and a regression prediction model of crop yield anomalies for the UBN basin. The impact-based CDI is defined as a drought index that optimally combines the information embedded in other drought indices for monitoring a certain impact of drought, i.e. crop yield for the UBN. The developed CDI and the regression model have shown to be effective in indicating historic drought events in UBN basin. The impact-based CDI could potentially be used in the future development of drought monitoring in the UBN basin and support decision making in order to mitigate adverse drought impacts.
Metal Recovery from Electronic Waste: Biological Versus Chemical Leaching for Recovery of Copper and Gold
Häftad, Engelska, 2018
1 322 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) generation is a global problem. Despite the growing awareness and deterring legislation, most of the WEEE is disposed improperly, i.e. landfilled or otherwise shipped overseas, and treated in sub-standard conditions. Informal recycling of WEEE has catastrophic effects on humans and the environment. WEEE contains considerable quantities of valuable metals such as base metals, precious metals and rare earth elements (REE). Metal recovery from WEEE is conventionally carried out by pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical methods. In this PhD research, novel metal recovery technologies from WEEE are investigated. Using acidophilic and cyanide-generating bacteria, copper and gold were removed from crushed electronic waste with removal efficiencies of 98.4 and 44.0%, respectively. The leached metals in solution were recovered using sulfidic precipitation and electrowinning separation techniques. Finally, a techno-economic assessment of the technology was studied. This research addresses the knowledge gap on two metal extraction approaches, namely chemical and biological, from a secondary source of metals. The essential parameters of the selective metal recovery processes, scale-up potential, techno-economic and sustainability assessment have been studied.
Photo-Activated Sludge: A Novel Algal-Bacterial Biotreatment for Nitrogen Removal from Wastewater
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
1 430 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Nitrogen rich wastewaters (10-400 mg N L-1) are usually produced by municipal, industrial and agricultural wastes, such as effluents from anaerobic treatments. These represent a risk to the environment due to the high nutrient concentrations (nitrogen and phosphorous), which can cause eutrophication of water bodies, deteriorating the quality of the ecosystems. As a solution, the potential nitrogen removal capacity of a novel bio-treatment system, namely the Photo-Activated Sludge (PAS), which is composed of microalgae and bacteria consortia, is presented in this thesis. This novel bio-treatment is based on the symbiosis between microalgae, nitrifiers and heterotrophic bacteria (microalgal-bacterial consortia). Experimental work using photobioreactors for the cultivation of microalgae and bacteria under sequencing batch conditions showed that microalgal-bacterial consortia can remove ammonium 50% faster than solely microalgal consortia. The increase in ammonium removal rates was due to the action of nitrifying bacteria, supplied with oxygen produced by algae. Nitrification was the main ammonium removal mechanism within the microalgal-bacterial biomass, followed by algal uptake and nutrient requirements for bacterial growth. Carbon oxidation and denitrification were the main removal mechanisms for organic carbon. Hence, the role of algae within the microalgal-bacterial system is to provide oxygen to support the aerobic processes. The microalgal-bacterial system offers the possibility of reducing the hydraulic retention time, which can decrease the large area requirements often demanded by algal systems.
Protection of Public Health from Microbial and Chemical Hazards in Swimming Pool Environments
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
733 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
This thesis describes the occurrence of microbial and chemical contaminants in swimming pools and the investigation of an alternative disinfection technology, UVOX Redox® that could reduce reliance on chlorine and the formation of chlorinated disinfection byproducts (DBPs) in swimming pools. This technology was effective in inactivation of chlorine resistant microorganisms, represented by Bacillus subtilis spores, and in combination with chlorine generated lower concentrations of chlorinated DBPs compared to chlorination alone. It enhanced the removal of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs), which were frequently present in indoor, outdoor and spa pools. Carbamazepine and 1H-benzotriazole were the most frequently detected PPCPs, while hydrochlorothiazide and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor were detected at the highest concentration. An investigation of seven different swimming pool facilities showed that clinically relevant fungi were omnipresent. Floors at the sites where the pool visitors converge, such as the exit leading to shower rooms, showed the highest fungal concentrations. The distribution of fungi inside the swimming pool facilities highlighted potential transmission pathways and a possible risk of fungal infections. Future swimming pool water guidance should include raising awareness among swimmers, pool operators and managers about hygienic behaviour and better hygiene measures, and application of alternative disinfection technologies such as UVOX.Key features:Identifies clinically relevant fungi in swimming pool environmentsIdentifies potential transmission pathways of clinically relevant fungi in indoor swimming poolsHighlights the occurrence of PPCPs in different type of pools and their relation with pool water treatmentAssesses an alternative disinfection technology for swimming pool water treatment.
Estimating Combined Loads of Diffuse and Point-Source Pollutants Into the Borkena River, Ethiopia
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
712 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
This book is an initial attempt to estimate the loads of heavy metal and nutrient loads into an industrial effluent receiving rivers of a typical industrializing catchment. It shows the effects and impacts of diffuse and point sources of these loads into the rivers, and illuminate management, capacity and policy gaps of riverine water and sediment monitoring in the sub-Saharan countries perspective from Ethiopia. The study was done in semi-arid catchments of Kombolcha city with industrialising urban and peri-urban areas in north-central Ethiopia. The Leyole and Worka rivers, which receives industrial effluent and wash-off from the catchments’ areas, were monitored for two years. This book contribute to our understanding on applicable methods to quantify loads of diffuse and point sources in data poor areas, and the most important contribution is to address the gaps in in controlling emission changes and. The results of this book contribute to the theory of river protection and understanding of water quality management of sub-Saharan African tropical rivers and sediments and provides policy options for improvement in rivers water quality of the sub-Saharan countries. In bridging this gap, this book proposed a model to estimate the total loads of nitrogen and phosphorus from a catchment.
Integrating Multiple Sources of Information for Improving Hydrological Modelling: an Ensemble Approach
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
712 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
The availability of Earth observation and numerical weather prediction data for hydrological modelling and water management has increased significantly, creating a situation that today, for the same variable, estimates may be available from two or more sources of information. Yet, in hydrological modelling, usually, a particular set of catchment characteristics and input data is selected, possibly ignoring other relevant data sources. In this thesis, therefore, a framework is being proposed to enable effective use of multiple data sources in hydrological modelling. In this framework, each available data source is used to derive catchment parameter values or input time series. Each unique combination of catchment and input data sources thus leads to a different hydrological simulation result: a new ensemble member. Together, the members form an ensemble of hydrological simulations. By following this approach, all available data sources are used effectively and their information is preserved. The framework also accommodates for applying multiple data-model integration methods, e.g. data assimilation. Each alternative integration method leads to yet another unique simulation result. Case study results for a distributed hydrological model of Rijnland, the Netherlands, show that the framework can be applied effectively, improve discharge simulation, and partially account for parameter and data uncertainty.
Improved Hydrological Understanding of a Semi-Arid Subtropical Transboundary Basin Using Multiple Techniques - The Incomati River Basin
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
1 322 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
This study aims at improving the hydrological process understanding of the semi-arid and transboundary Incomati river basin to enable better water management. Comprehensive statistical and trend analysis of rainfall and streamflow were conducted, and the Indicators of Hydrological Alteration tool was deployed to describe the streamflow regime and trends over time. Land use and land cover change, particularly the conversion of natural vegetation into forest plantation, the expansion of irrigated agriculture and the flow regulation due to dam operation were identified as critical drivers of flow regime alteration. Hydrograph separation using long-term hydrochemical data at seasonal scale, and hydrochemical and isotope data at event scale were performed to quantify runoff components. A novel methodology to calibrate recursive digital filters using routinely collected water quality data was developed and tested in the catchment. This method allows for estimation of daily baseflow from readily available daily streamflow data. Dominant runoff generation zones were mapped using the Height Above Nearest Drainage approach. The hydrological model STREAM was then employed, informed by the runoff generation zones mapping and the process understanding gained in the catchment, as well as remote sensing data. The study provides the basis for better operational water management in the catchment.
Ecological Modelling of River-Wetland Systems
A Case Study for the Abras de Mantequilla Wetland in Ecuador
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
1 430 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Around 6% of the Earth's land surface is covered by wetlands. Wetlands play a key role in hydrological and biogeochemical cycles, delivering multiple benefits to society: sources of water supply, flood regulation, water purification, agriculture, fisheries, and biodiversity. Hence, wetland systems are of immense socio-economic as well as ecological importance. In this research, the focus was on the Abras de Mantequilla (AdM) wetland in the tropical coastal region of Ecuador, a RAMSAR site and case study area for the EU-FP7 WETwin project.The research in this thesis involves a combination of field data collection, multivariate analysis techniques, as well as numerical modelling studies. The goal was to explore the effects of changes in hydrological forcing on the hydrodynamic and ecohydraulic responses of the wetland. The study aims to contribute to the understanding of how a tropical river-wetland system functions in terms of hydrodynamics, water quality, primary production, and biotic communities. Spatial patterns of biotic communities and environmental variables are obtained as well as spatio-temporal variability of hydrodynamics, water quality, primary productivity and fish habitat-suitability conditions. In data scarce areas and countries with financial constraints, the combination of field measurements with numerical models was extremely useful and relevant, confirming that these techniques complement each other in obtaining a better understanding of the dynamics of freshwater river–wetland systems. Studies like the present research can be used to enhance awareness about the environmental services of wetlands and stimulate cooperation between all stakeholders in order to achieve more sustainable wetland management.
Rethinking Faecal Sludge Management in Emergency Settings
Decision Support Tools and Smart Technology Applications for Emergency Sanitation
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
1 186 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
The development of technology in the emergency sanitation sector has not been emphasised sufficiently considering that the management of human excreta is a basic requirement for every person. The lack of technology tailored to emergency situations complicates efforts to cater for sanitation needs in challenging humanitarian crisis. Concerns persists on the lack of faecal sludge management that considers the whole sanitation chain from containment until treatment. This study focused on the development of a smart emergency toilet termed the eSOS (emergency sanitation operation system) smart toilet to address the limitation in technical options. This toilet is based on the eSOS concept that takes into account the entire sanitation chain. This study also addresses the limited time for planning in emergencies by developing a decision support system (DSS) to help quick selection of optimal sanitation options. The aim was to enable users of the DSS to plan their emergency sanitation response within the shortest time possible. The study aims to contribute toward a better emergency sanitation response by application of technology advances.
Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control for the Municipal Water Cycle in a River Basin Context
Validation of the Three-Step Strategic Approach
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
1 186 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
The protection of water resources from deterioration in quality by pollution discharges is probably the biggest challenge in sustainable water resources management in the recent decades. In practice, most countries have adopted pollution control strategies and measures which are based on ‘end-of-pipe’ solutions: wastewater treatment plants and adjustments to the regulations, including taxes for wastewater discharges (Conventional Strategy). Although this approach involves very high costs, on many occasions, this strategy has been a complete failure. The research described in this book contribute to the development of sustainable solutions for the previously outlined problem. It was based on the validation of the Three-Step Strategic Approach concept (3-SSA), which includes: 1) prevention or minimisation of waste production; 2) treatment aimed at recovery and reuse of waste components, and 3) disposal of remaining waste with stimulation of natural self-purification of the receiving water body. The study showed overall positive effects of the 3-SSA, in comparison of Conventional Strategy, on wastewater management in the Upper Basin (389 km) of the Cauca river, the second most important river in Colombia. The Cost Benefit Analysis clearly favoured the 3-SSA, generating a major impact on the river water quality at lower cost compared to the Conventional Strategy.
Optimisation of Dynamic Heterogeneous Rainfall Sensor Networks in the Context of Citizen Observatories
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
1 105 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Precipitation drives the dynamics of flows and storages in water systems, making its monitoring essential for water management. Conventionally, precipitation is monitored using in-situ and remote sensors. In-situ sensors are arranged in networks, which are usually sparse, providing continuous observations for long periods at fixed points in space, and due to the high costs of such networks, they are often sub-optimal. To increase the efficiency of the monitoring networks, we explore the use of sensors that can relocate as rainfall events develop (dynamic sensors), as well as increasing the number of sensors involving volunteers (citizens). This research focusses on the development of an approach for merging heterogeneous observations in non-stationary precipitation fields, exploring the interactions between different definitions of optimality for the design of sensor networks, as well as development of algorithms for the optimal scheduling of dynamic sensors. This study was carried out in three different case studies, including Bacchiglione River (Italy), Don River (U.K.) and Brue Catchment (U.K.) The results of this study indicate that optimal use of dynamic sensors may be useful for monitoring precipitation to support water management and flow forecasting.
Anaerobic Treatment and Resource Recovery from Methanol Rich Waste Gases and Wastewaters
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
1 186 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Methanol is an important volatile organic compound (VOC) present in the gaseous and liquid effluents of process industries such as pulp and paper, paint manufacturing and petroleum refineries. An estimated 65% of the total methanol emission was from the Kraft mills of the pulp and paper industries. The effect of selenate, sulfate and thiosulfate on methanol utilization for volatile fatty acids (VFA) production was individually examined in batch systems. Gas-phase methanol removal along with thiosulfate reduction was carried out for 123 d in an anoxic BTF. To examine the gas-phase methanol removal along with selenate reduction, another anoxic biotrickling filter (BTF) was operated for 89 d under step and continuous selenate feeding conditions. For the study on liquid-phase methanol, acetogenesis of foul condensate (FC) obtained from a chemical pulping industry was tested in three upflow anaerobic sludge blanket (UASB) reactors operated at 22, 37 and 55 ºC for 51 d. The recovery of VFA was explored through adsorption studies using anion exchange resins in batch systems. The adsorption capacity of individual VFA on Amberlite IRA-67 and Dowex optipore L-493 was examined by fitting the experimental data to adsorption isotherms and kinetic models. A sequential batch process was tested to achieve selective separation of acetic acid from the VFA mixture.
Understanding the Impact of Human Interventions on the Hydrology of Nile Basin Headwaters, the Case of Upper Tekeze Catchments
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
1 105 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
The availability and distribution of water resources in catchments are influenced by various natural and anthropogenic factors. Human-induced environmental changes are key factors controlling the hydrological flows of semi-arid catchments. Land degradation, water scarcity and inefficient utilization of available water resources continue to be important constraints for socio-economic development in the headwater catchments of the Nile river basin in particular over the Ethiopian Catchments. This research investigates the impact of landscape anthropogenic changes on the hydrological processes in the Upper Tekeze basin (A tributary of the Nile). The hydrology of the basin is investigated through analysis of hydro-climatic data, remote sensing techniques, new field measurements and parsimonious hydrological models. The empirical evidence provided in this book confirms that human-induced environmental changes can significantly change the hydrology of catchments, both in negative (degradation) and in positive (restoration) ways. This book also shows that rainfall-runoff relationships in semi-arid catchments are non-uniform and hence the application of hydrological models in such catchments need special attention. Moreover, parsimonious dynamic hydrological model improves our understanding of the hydrological response to dynamic environmental changes.
Value of Using Hydrological Datasets for Water Allocation Decisions: Earth Observations, Hydrological Models and Seasonal Forecasts
Häftad, Engelska, 2019
1 105 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
An increasing number of hydrological datasets from earth observations, hydrological models and seasonal forecasts have become available for water managers, consultants and the general public. These datasets are state-of-the-art products which are usually accessible online and may contribute to develop hydrological studies and support water resources management. However, the added value of these datasets has not been completely explored in decision-making processes. Research studies have assessed how well data can help in predicting climate, but there is a lack of knowledge on how well data can help in water allocation decisions. This work provides numerical tools, methods and results to evaluate the value of using hydrological datasets to support water allocation decisions at river basin and irrigation district scale. An integrated approach is used to predict climate, improve decisions and reduce negative impacts. Results show that investing in hydrological data with finer spatial and temporal resolution and longer periods of record improves water allocation decisions and reduces agricultural production loss in large irrigation schemes. Using river discharge data from hydrological models and global precipitation enhances irrigation area planning when little in-situ data is available. Moreover, using seasonal streamflow forecasts improves available water estimates resulting in better water allocation decisions. The framework was tested in Costa Rica, Colombia and Australia, but can be applied in any case study around the world.
1 322 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
This book examines Nile water security through the morphology of the river: it uses the always changing form of the river as a theoretical and empirical device to map and understand how infrastructures and discourses dynamically interact with the Nile. By bringing a history of two centuries of dam development on the Nile in relation with the drainage of a hill slope in Ethiopia on the one hand and irrigation reform in Sudan on the other, the author shows how the scales, units and ‘populations’ figuring in projects to securitize the river emerge through the rearrangement of its water and sediments. The analysis of ‘Making water security’ is more than yet another story of how modern projects of water security have legitimized often violent dispossessions of Nile land and water. It shows how no water user is confined by the roles assigned by project engineers and planners. As ongoing modern ‘development’ of the river reduces the prospects for new large diversions of water, the targeted subjects of development and modernization make use of newly opened spaces to carve out their own projects. They creatively mobilize old irrigation and drainage infrastructures in ways that escape the universal logic of water security.
Advancing Robust Multi-Objective Optimisation Applied to Complex Model-Based Water-Related Problems
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
1 051 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
The exercise of solving engineering problems that require optimisation procedures can be seriously affected by uncertain variables, resulting in potential underperforming solutions. Although this is a well-known problem, important knowledge gaps are still to be addressed. For example, concepts of robustness largely differ from study to study, robust solutions are generally provided with limited information about their uncertainty, and robust optimisation is difficult to apply as it is a computationally demanding task.The proposed research aims to address the mentioned challenges and focuses on robust optimisation of multiple objectives and multiple sources of probabilistically described uncertainty. This is done by the development of the Robust Optimisation and Probabilistic Analysis of Robustness algorithm (ROPAR), which integrates widely accepted robustness metrics into a single flexible framework. In this thesis, ROPAR is not only tested in benchmark functions, but also in engineering problems related to the water sector, in particular the design of urban drainage and water distribution systems. ROPAR allows for employing practically any existing multi-objective optimisation algorithm as its internal optimisation engine, which enables its applicability to other problems as well. Additionally, ROPAR can be straightforwardly parallelized, allowing for fast availability of results.
Strategies to Cope with Risks of Uncertain Water Supply in Spate Irrigation Systems
Case Study: Gash Agricultural Scheme in Sudan
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
1 051 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Flood based irrigation in particular spate irrigation relies on variable flood scenarios occurring every year. Management of spate flood for spate irrigation must cope with the variability and uncertainty of water supply. Coping with water supply risks is often the only way to harness the opportunities for a productive use of water in arid environment. Integrating and strengthening community responses into irrigation policies and improvement plans could ensure sustainable and productive spate irrigated systems that can achieve food security for the poor population. This research analyses and evaluates risks and coping strategies developed by farming communities in the Gash spate irrigation system in Sudan, Eastern Africa. The research has synthesized different coping strategies developed by farmers, water user associations and water managers to cope with low, high and untimely flood risks. The research provide different frameworks that can assist with the identification of risk sources, pathways and propagation as well as evaluation of locally developed strategies at field, secondary and intake systems. The findings of this study contribute to scarce knowledge on spate irrigation system and provide scientifically sound and evidence-based insights to aid informed policy and decision making to improve productivity and sustainability of the spate irrigation systems.
Combining Green-Blue-Grey Infrastructure for Flood Mitigation and Enhancement of Co-Benfits
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
1 051 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
An increment of urban flood risk in many areas around the globe is expected, accentuated due to climate change and urbanisation. Thus, appropriate flood risk management is crucial. Conventional approaches focus on grey infrastructure, which frequently do not address the root causes of risk. A change of paradigm is needed to develop effective adaptation strategies. Green-blue infrastructure (GBI) is a central concept to achieve adaptation to climate change. Its main strength is the ability to deliver multiple benefits. Although strong evidence exists demonstrating that GBI is a sustainable solution to reduce flooding, its adoption is still slow. Therefore, the objective of this research is to help decision-makers to adopt adaptation strategies to cope with flood risk while achieving other benefits. This study provides a framework which introduces co-benefits into decision-making for stormwater infrastructure planning. Besides, the multiple benefits are quantified and their impact on helping GBI implementation are evaluated. Finally, the effects of including co-benefits on the selection of flood mitigation strategies and the trade-offs among cost and benefits are assessed. This work contributes to enhance planning processes for flood mitigation combining green-blue-grey measures. It provides tools and knowledge to facilitate holistic decision-making, in order to ensure safe and liveable urban spaces for current and future conditions.
Use of Delft3D to Simulate the Deposition of Cohesive and Non-Cohesive Sediments in Irrigation Systems
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
1 051 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Sediment deposition threatens the performance of many irrigation systems. Because of the high impact on irrigation performance and crop production, many studies have been done on how to deal with sediment deposition. In this research, the Delft3D model, originally developed for hydro-morphologic modeling of rivers and estuaries, was adapted for the use in irrigation systems simulations and applied to different case studies. This research addresses two shortcomings of previous studies of sediments in irrigation systems. Firstly, while previous studies primarily used 1D models, this research uses a 2D/3D model. The use of 2D/3D models in irrigation systems is significant because the non-uniform flow around structures such as offtakes, weirs and gates, leads to asymmetric sedimentation patterns that are missed by 1D simulations. Secondly, whereas previous studies mostly considered non-cohesive sediments, this research simulates cohesive, non-cohesive and a mix of both sediment types. This is important for irrigation systems that draw water from natural rivers that carry a mix of cohesive and non-cohesive sediments. The findings of this research are important for irrigation system maintenance and gate operation. It is also essential for the development of canal operating plans that meet crop water requirements and at the same time minimizes sediment deposition by alternating gates.
1 186 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
In recent decades there has been an exponential increase in large hydroelectric plants in Brazil, especially in the Amazon region. These large hydraulic structures impact the environment and the lives of people living in the places where they settle and require a special type of water governance.The dictatorial regime (1964-1985) created a "standard" for the construction of these great structures, through an institutional and legal framework, which benefited the Brazilian business elite but also, through the creation of a popular imagination, which shows itself lasting progress on the country's progress and development. The suspension of security, the fragility of institutional environmental structures, the disrespect for indigenous reserves, the lack of clarity about the concept of "affected population" and the non-payment of fair compensation were identified as one of the main challenges for a democratic water governance in the country.In the late 1970s, the Dam-Affected Movement (MAB) began its organization and is also studied in this research.The study is an important and insightful academic contribution to the understanding of the main bottlenecks of effective water governance in Brazil.
Inclusive Development and Multilevel Transboundary Water Governance - The Kabul River
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
1 701 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
The four decades long ideological-based insurgencies and conflict in the Kabul River Basin (KRB) have seriously hampered the relations and foreign policies of both Afghanistan and Pakistan. Consequently, it restricts them to solve various bilateral issues including transboundary waters. This lack of cooperation over shared water resources is one of the barriers to achieve inclusive and sustainable development. Additionally, it has contributed to the prevailing anarchic situation where each country does what it wants. The absence of a formal water-sharing mechanism coupled with poor water management practices within both the riparian counties are resulting various flow and administration-related challenges. Moreover, these challenges are further exacerbated by regional changes in social, political, environmental and economic systems. The scholarly literature suggests that an analytical transboundary water governance framework is essential to address the challenges of water politicisation and securitisation, quality degradation and quantity reduction. Additionally, the literature rarely integrates (a) a multi-level approach, (b) an institutional approach (c) an inclusive development approach, or (d) accounts for the uses of different types of water and their varied ecosystem services for improved transboundary water governance. To enhance human wellbeing and achieve inclusive and sustainable development in the KRB this research indicates that it is essential to: (1) defrost frozen collaboration; (2) bypass border dispute; (3) use biodiversity and ecosystem services approach; (4) address existing and potential natural and anthropogenic challenges; (5) remove contradictions in the policy environment; (6) combat resource limits and dependence by promoting collaboration on long-term cost effective solutions; and (7) enhance knowledge and dialogue on inclusive development.
Assessment of the Fate of Surrogates for Enteric Pathogens Resulting From the Surcharging of Combined Sewer Systems
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
820 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
In the last ten years (2009-2019), flooding caused the death of over 48,000 people, and affected over 697 million people globally. This is expected to increase as a result of climate change, population growth and urbanisation. Floods can cause infections due to the release of water-borne pathogens from surcharged combined sewers and other sources of faecal contamination on urban surfaces such as concrete, asphalt, gravel, pavement, playground rubber tiles and grass. Using laboratory experiments with faecal indicator bacteria Escherichia coli, and with Bacillus subtilis spores, and MS2 bacteriophages under controlled exposure to simulated sunlight, this research contributes towards a better understanding of the environmental parameters that affect the concentration of pathogens in contaminated shallow water bodies and on different urban surfaces. Also, several sampling methods are assessed for the recovery of bacteria from flood-prone urban surfaces. This study suggests that given the sunlight conditions after an urban flood, the concentration of indicator organisms and of total suspended solids and the surface type it is possible to estimate the fate of selected pathogens. The observations and results presented in this study contribute to the development of policy-making tools for rapid implementation of appropriate measures to mitigate public health risks after flooding.This book:- highlights the relation of urban floods with water-borne diseases.-stresses for the first time the importance of urban surfaces (pavement, concrete, asphalt, etc.) on the inactivation of water-borne pathogens.-provides equations that can be used to develop policy-making tools for implementation of appropriate measures to mitigate public health risks after flooding.
Optimizing the Operation of a Multiple Reservoir System in the Eastern Nile Basin Considering Water and Sediment Fluxes
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
1 051 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
The Eastern Nile riparian countries Egypt, Ethiopia and Sudan are currently developing several reservoir projects to contribute to the needs for energy and food production in the region. The Nile Basin, particularly the Eastern Nile Sub-basin, is considered one of a few international river systems with potential conflicts between riparian countries. In the absence of formal mechanisms for collaboration, the transboundary nature of this basin makes sound water resources development challenging. The large seasonal and inter-annual variability of the river flow exacerbates those challenges. A further complication is the high sediment load in the Eastern Nile rivers during the high flow season.This study contributes to fill relevant knowledge gaps through a better understanding of the methods needed for a complex system of multipurpose reservoirs, considering both water quantity and sediment load. The study quantifies the impacts of water resources development in the Eastern Nile basin and identifies system management options at both regional and country level. Developing a collaborative and unified perspective of the countries towards new projects can be beneficial for all. New operation rules are proposed for improving operation of the current system when new infrastructures are developed and operated either unilaterally or, ideally, cooperatively.
Biovalorisation of Liquid and Gaseous Effluents of Oil Refinery and Petrochemical Industry
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
1 186 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
A bidirectional approach of detoxifying the liquid and gaseous effluents of oil refineries is elucidated in this thesis. Liquid effluents of oil refineries contain selenium oxyanions and phenol, while gaseous effluents contain CO/syngas. To remove the phenol and simultaneously reduce the selenite oxyanions, a fungal-bacterial co-culture of Phanerochaete chrysosporium and Delftia lacustris was developed. Two modes of co-cultures of the fungus and the bacterium were developed. Both cultures were investigated for phenol degradation and selenite reduction. In order to valorize the CO/syngas by bioconversion techniques. an anaerobic methanogenic sludge was acclimatized to use CO as the sole carbon substrate to produce acetic acid, butyric acid, and hexanoic acid. Later, the acids were metabolized at lower pH, producing alcohols ethanol, butanol and hexanol, confirming the successful enrichment strategy. The next experiment focused on the absence of the trace element tungsten, and consecutively selenium on the previously CO acclimatized sludge under the same operating conditions. An in-situ synthesized co-polymeric gel of N-ter-butyl-acrylamide and acrylic acid was used to recover ethanol, propanol and butanol from a synthetic fermentation broth. The scope of repeated use of the gel for alcohol recovery was investigated and 98% alcohol was recovered.
Community-Based Monitoring Initiatives of Water and Environment: Evaluation of Establishment Dynamics and Results
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
1 186 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Citizen participation in water and environmental management via community-based monitoring (CBM) has been praised for the potential to facilitate better informed, more inclusive, transparent, and representative decision making. However, methodological and empirical research trying to conceptualize and evaluate the dynamics at play that might enable or hinder these initiatives from delivering on their potential is limited. This research contributed to the conceptualization of CBMs through development of a conceptual framework that is suitable for Context analysis, Process evaluation and Impact assessment of CBMs – the CPI Framework. This conceptualization provides an interpretation of what 'community' means in the context of a CBM initiative. In addition, this research contributed to the existing empirical knowledge about the establishment, functioning and outcomes of CBMs by testing the CPI Framework for studying two real life CBMs throughout the lifetime of an EU-funded project - the Ground Truth 2.0. The first CBM is called Grip op Water Altena that focuses on the issue of pluvial floods in 'Land van Heusden en Altena' of the Netherlands. The second CBM is Maasai Mara Citizen Observatory and aims at contributing to a better balance between biodiversity conservation and sustainable livelihood management in the Mara ecosystem in Kenya.
Climate Change and Development Impacts on Groundwater Resources in the Nile Delta Aquifer, Egypt
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
1 051 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Climate change is likely to continue to have severe impacts, including sea level rise. At the same time, population increase and development imperatives create additional pressure on available water resources. These changes are problematic for the Mediterranean coastal areas and especially the Nile Delta coast. Particular focus of this study is on salinization of groundwater resources in the Nile Delta Aquifer (NDA) due to saltwater intrusion. To assess current conditions and develop future adaptation strategies for the NDA, a 3D model simulating regional variable-density groundwater flow and coupled salt transport was constructed based on available data set, using the SEAWAT code. A method for identification of the most representative model has been developed, based on testing different simulation periods during which the NDA has ‘evolved’ from completely fresh groundwater conditions to conditions representative for the year 2010.This model was then applied to analyze possible future NDA conditions under several predefined scenarios of sea level rise and groundwater extraction. This analysis indicated that the impacts from further extractions of groundwater on availability of fresh groundwater in the aquifer are more significant compared to those from sea level rise. Furthermore, three different adaptation measures and their impacts in the Sharkeya Nile Delta governorate were tested. It was shown that that changing crop types and irrigation practices towards water saving options seem to be more promising than artificial recharge with injection wells or extraction and usage of brackish groundwater after desalination. The developed model is useful for further Water-Food Nexus studies.
Land Degradation in the Dinder and Rahad Basins
Interactions Between Hydrology, Morphology and Ecohydrology in the Dinder National Park, Sudan
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
1 186 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
The spatial and temporal variability of the hydro-climate as well as land use and land cover (LULC) changes are among the most challenging problems facing water resources management. Understanding the interaction between climate variability, land use and land cover changes and their links to hydrology, river morphology and ecohydrology in the Dinder and Rahad basins in Sudan is confronted by the lack of climatic, hydrological and ecological data. This book investigated the impacts of land degradation on the Dinder and Rahad hydrology and morphology, and interlinkage to the ecohydrological system of the Dinder National Park (DNP) in Sudan. It used an ensemble of techniques to improve our understanding of the hydrological processes and LULC changes in these basins. This included long-term trend analysis of hydroclimatic variables, LULC changes analysis, field measurements, rainfall-runoff modelling, hydrodynamic and morphological modelling of the Dinder river and its floodplain, with special focus on the Mayas wetlands. Moreover, this research is the first study to investigate the eco-hydrology of the DNP. It is expected that the results of the study will be beneficial to all stakeholders concerned and support decision-making processes for better management of water resources and ecosystem conservation in the area and possibly beyond.
Pro-Poor Strategies in Urban Water Provisioning
What Kenyan Water Utilities Do and Why They Do It
Häftad, Engelska, 2020
766 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
Water utilities are the main instrument for countries to achieve universal service coverage. In pursuing universal service coverage, water utilities have turned to pro-poor water services to extend water services in low-income areas. This thesis discusses the use of pro-poor water services by water utilities in Kenya, with the intention of highlighting the dimensions of the approach that require attention of policy makers and practitioners when engaging with the concept. Based on the analysis of the technologies, financial and organisational arrangements associated with the pro-poor concept, this thesis shows that the use of pro-poor strategies allows water utilities to reduce the risks of servicing low-income areas while still claiming to fulfil their mandate of providing access to all in a commercially viable manner. The analysis also shows that rather than a decision of the water utility, the choice for pro-poor strategies emerges as the result of a consensus or compromise between the different actors that constitute the broader institutional environment in which water utilities operate. The thesis concludes that while pro-poor water services may serve the interests of water utilities and other stakeholders, in the absence of well-directed subsidies and proper monitoring they will not result in low-income households benefiting from more affordable and reliable access to water.
1 186 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
In many developing countries, water demand is increasing while surface- and groundwater resources are threatened by pollution and overexploitation. Hence, a more sustainable approach to water resources management and water treatment is required. In this capacity, bank filtration is a natural treatment process that makes use of the storage and contaminant attenuation capacity of natural soil/rock. However, BF is site-specific and a significant knowledge gap exists regarding the design and management of bank filtration systems, particularly in developing countries. This research aimed to address these gaps and contribute to the transfer of bank filtration to developing countries. This study comprised both column and batch laboratory-scale experiments to determine the effect of environmental variables such as temperature, raw water organic composition and redox conditions on the removal of chemical pollutants such as organic matter, micro-pollutants and heavy metals as well as the mobility of iron, manganese and arsenic under anaerobic conditions. Ultimately, the effectiveness of BF for supplying high drinking water quality was assessed in a case study in Egypt. The study showed that more than 80% of biodegradable organic matter was removed during infiltration at temperatures between 20 and 30 °C. However, humic compounds enriched during BF, required post-treatment. Moreover, high humic content of infiltrating water reduced the removal of heavy metal and promoted the release of metal (loids) into the infiltrating water, rendering it more feasible to install BF wells within surface water systems with low levels of organic matter. Moderately-hydrophobic organic micropollutants were most persistent and required infiltration times longer than 30 days for complete elimination even at high temperatures (>20 °C). Finally, design parameters such as the number of infiltration wells should be configured to minimise the proportion of polluted groundwater in the pumped water. Overall, this study provides insight into the effectiveness of BF in removing chemical pollutants from surface water and proposes guidelines for the successful application of BF in developing countries where arid conditions and high temperatures prevail.
Modelling Human-Flood Interactions
A Coupled Flood-Agent-Institution Modelling Framework for Long-Term Flood Risk Management
Häftad, Engelska, 2021
1 051 kr
Skickas inom 10-15 vardagar
The negative impacts of floods are attributed to the extent and magnitude of a flood hazard, and the vulnerability and exposure of natural and human elements. In flood risk management (FRM) studies, it is crucial to model the interaction between human and flood subsystems across multiple spatial, temporal and organizational scales. Models should address the heterogeneity that exists within the human subsystem, and incorporate institutions that shape the behaviour of individuals. Hence, the main objectives of the dissertation are to develop a modelling framework and a methodology to build holistic models for FRM, and to assess how coupled human-flood interaction models support FRM policy analysis and decision-making. To achieve the objectives, the study introduces the Coupled fLood-Agent-Institution Modelling framework (CLAIM). CLAIM integrates actors, institutions, the urban environment, hydrologic and hydrodynamic processes and external factors, which affect FRM activities. The framework draws on the complex system perspective and conceptualizes the interaction of floods, humans and their environment as drivers of flood hazard, vulnerability and exposure. The human and flood subsystems are modelled using agent-based models and hydrodynamic models, respectively. The two models are dynamically coupled to understand human-flood interactions and to investigate the effect of institutions on FRM policy analysis.