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Overview of Water Crisis in Iran: Exploring Solutions for the Sustainability of Water ResourcesA Review of Modern Management and Optimization of Water Consumption to Combat the Water Scarcity Crisis in Iran
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Roghayeh Mohamadlou *   , Musheb Saud Hamad |
| urmia university |
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Abstract: (59 Views) |
Innovative solutions leveraging advanced technologies can play an effective role in optimizing water consumption and improving water resource management. Accordingly, the present study aims to identify various such solutions and evaluate their effectiveness in sustaining water resources, particularly in the arid and semi-arid provinces of the country. In this regard, domestic articles published between 2011 and 2025 (1390 to 1404 in the Iranian calendar) have been reviewed to systematically analyze existing findings and proposed approaches. The results indicate that the use of technologies such as underground dams, rainwater harvesting systems, water and wastewater recycling, virtual water utilization, flood spreading systems, artificial aquifer recharge, and especially improvements in water governance, if implemented purposefully and adapted locally, can lead to reduced dependence on conventional water sources and increased resilience of dry regions. However, the review of domestic sources shows that the effectiveness and success of these solutions have not yet been comprehensively evaluated, and most existing studies are limited to short-term periods (mostly one year). In contrast, to obtain a more accurate picture of the real impact of these measures on improving water resources, conducting long-term and comprehensive studies, at least over several years, is essential. Only then can reliable information be provided to executive agencies, planners, and local communities, facilitating effective and sustainable decision-making. Furthermore, the success of these solutions is strongly influenced by factors such as geological conditions, spatial and temporal distribution of rainfall, local infrastructure, and the use of precise analytical models such as GIS and fuzzy logic.
On the other hand, the structure of water governance in Iran, due to centralization, institutional discoordination, and weakness in stakeholder engagement, constitutes one of the most significant obstacles to the effective realization of these measures. Consequently, transformation in water resource governance through participatory approaches, increased transparency, policy coordination, utilization of indigenous knowledge, interdisciplinary integration, and the use of innovative solutions compatible with the country’s climate is an indispensable necessity. |
Article number: 2 |
| Keywords: Strategies for coping with water scarcity, Optimization of water consumption, Innovations in water resource management |
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
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