The Vjosa River, a vital waterway in Albania, is facing significant challenges due to soil erosion exacerbated by climate change. A recent study led by Lushaj Sherif from the Department of Environment of Planning at Polis University delves into the multifaceted impacts of erosion in the Vjosa River watershed. This research not only highlights the environmental consequences but also underscores the economic and social ramifications that can ripple through the water, sanitation, and drainage sectors.
The Vjosa River, stretching 272 kilometers and with a watershed area of 6,704 square kilometers, is crucial for providing essential ecosystem services, including water provisioning and nutrient cycling. However, increasing temperatures and altered precipitation patterns threaten these services. “The sustainability of the Vjosa River is at stake, and we must act to protect this invaluable resource,” states Sherif. His team’s findings emphasize that without proactive measures, the river’s health—and by extension, the communities that rely on it—could be severely compromised.
The declaration of the Vjosa River as a “National Park” in 2023 marks a significant step towards its preservation. This designation not only protects the river’s ecosystem but also opens avenues for sustainable management practices that can enhance its services. For the water, sanitation, and drainage sectors, this creates a unique opportunity to innovate and adapt. Companies can explore new technologies and practices that support ecosystem preservation while also ensuring reliable water supply and sanitation services.
Furthermore, the study advocates for good governance of the territory as a means to prevent further soil erosion. Effective land management strategies will be crucial in mitigating erosion and its impacts on water quality and availability. “By implementing sustainable practices, we can ensure that the Vjosa River continues to benefit both nature and human societies,” Sherif adds, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between governmental bodies, local communities, and the private sector.
As the Vjosa River’s challenges become more pronounced, this research serves as a call to action for stakeholders in the water, sanitation, and drainage sectors. The insights provided by Sherif and his team can guide future developments, fostering a more resilient approach to water management in the face of climate change. The findings are documented in the ‘E3S Web of Conferences’, an outlet dedicated to disseminating significant environmental research.
For more information about the Department of Environment of Planning at Polis University, you can visit their website at Polis University.
