Water Security Mapping and Modeling: A Systematic Review and Conceptual Framework

Keywords: water security, water access, mapping, modeling, and conceptual framework
Abstract Type: Poster Abstract

Abstract

Water scarcity, population increase, climate change, and declining resource quality all contribute to the growing importance of water resources management. The objective of this study is to understand the evidence foundation for water security initiatives in New Mexico by conducting a comprehensive evaluation of the literature on water insecurity currently available in the United States. Using the Web of Science database of scientific journals and publications published between 2012 and 2022, the authors performed a comprehensive evaluation of the literature. A number of natural and human causes have put land managers under water stress across the state of New Mexico, and water stress levels are predicted to rise in the coming years. Pollution from industries like mining and agriculture, as well as inadequate water infrastructure, particularly in rural low-income, minority, and indigenous populations, are human factors that contribute to water stress. Arid or semiarid climates and recurrent droughts are examples of natural conditions that cause water stress. Climate change and rising water demands brought on by population increase are predicted to worsen water stress in the future. The health of both humans and the ecosystem is at danger due to water stress. For instance, a lack of access to clean drinking water, insufficient sanitation, and increased disease transmission may all endanger human life. Numerous elements of plant physiology are negatively impacted by water shortage as well, which hinders agricultural processes and jeopardizes food security. Thus, overall, the effects of water stress on human health, productivity, and development are quite detrimental.