Sustainable water management in the context of climate change

Teaching methodologies (including students’ assessment):

Lectures will be taught through theoretical-practical sessions where expository sessions will be used to taught strategies and concepts, research and analysis of case studies. In more practical classes, a project-based learning process will be developed. The use of collaborative platforms will be encouraged for project development during autonomous work hours, fostering a collaborative working environment.

An individual teaching strategy will be implemented, aimed at acquiring specific knowledge and skills that will be used by PhD students in their thesis work, based on a “problem-based learning” methodology, which allows for the development of in-depth interdisciplinary skills to solve complex problems in an integrated manner.

The curricular unit aims to sensitize PhD students to the sustainability of water resources and challenges in the face of climate change, and to present and discuss different processes for managing these resources, as well as making them proficient in cutting-edge methodologies for managing water resources used in various socio-economic activities. As the biggest water user, its efficient use is of particularly important in irrigated agriculture. The aim is therefore to provide knowledge in both legislative and procedural terms, as well as in scientific and technical terms. In addition, to promote sustainability and water quality in our communities, it will demonstrate the importance of using new materials and cutting-edge technologies in water and wastewater treatment.

Water Security and Safety.

The water cycle. Water resources (WR) management: principles and water availability. WR and river basin management plans. Water uses: water abstraction, storage and treatment, water quality.

Water Resilience

WR risk and vulnerability to extreme weather conditions (floods & droughts). Climate change impacts, vulnerable sectors, mitigation and adaptation measures. Water efficiency under climate change and smart solutions for efficient water use in the agri-food sector. Cutting-edge technologies for water treatment and recovery of emerging compounds. Non-conventional water sources. Circularity of water. Key indicators for sustainable WR.

Governance and Innovation

Vision and management tools: Sustainable Development Goals, planetary boundaries, climate policies and the role of water policies. Case studies related to water management. Water-energy-food production nexus.

Impact modeling Software, scenario definition (BAU, IPCC, water use/management alternatives).

NAO