System Archetypes in Water Resource Management

Document Type

Conference Proceeding

Publication Date

5-31-2018

Department

Department of Civil, Environmental, and Geospatial Engineering

Abstract

Many water resources management (WRM) problems are similar in nature, and yet they continuously appear in different forms and in different geographical locations. Understanding a malfunctioning system structure is essential for developing sustainable solutions, which should be further examined using detailed quantitative models. Persistent WRM problems can be explained at the strategic level using a set of generic system structures, commonly known as system archetypes. These causal-descriptive conceptual models can be used as diagnostic tools to identify weak links and problematic feedback loops in management schemes, facilitating the dissemination of policy-relevant insights for addressing the weaknesses. This paper illustrates the use of generic structures in water resources systems for uncovering the root cause of some ubiquitous WRM problems and potential unintended consequences of short-sighted solutions. The utility of system archetypes is discussed in terms of gaining big-picture systemic insights, developing effective technological solutions and complementary management policies, and monitoring sustainable system trajectories.

Publication Title

World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2018: Watershed Management, Irrigation and Drainage, and Water Resources Planning and Management - Selected Papers from the World Environmental and Water Resources Congress 2018

ISBN

9780784481400

Link to Full Text

Share

COinS