In the heart of a protected tropical dry forest, a university is making waves in sustainable water management, offering a blueprint for institutions and industries grappling with water scarcity and climate change. The Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL) in Ecuador has turned to nature-based solutions, specifically an artificial lake, to secure its water future and conserve its unique ecosystem. The findings, published in *Frontiers in Water* (translated as *Frontiers in Water*), offer a compelling case study for the energy sector and beyond.
Bethy Merchán-Sanmartín, lead author and researcher at ESPOL’s Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias de la Tierra (FICT), explains, “Our research demonstrates that nature-based solutions like artificial lakes can be a viable, sustainable alternative for water management, even in the face of growing demand and climate variability.”
The study evaluated the water availability of ESPOL’s artificial lake through a comprehensive water balance analysis, considering two consumption scenarios: total and partial water provision to the campus community. The results were promising. The lake can meet the campus’s water needs without a deficit until 2041. Moreover, by considering technical and environmental aspects, the researchers suggest that its use could be extended until 2055.
Water quality tests further revealed that the lake represents an acceptable water source for the proposed purposes, provided it receives adequate treatment. This finding is particularly significant for industries like energy, where water availability and quality are critical for operations.
The study also identified an elevated reservoir located in a high area adjacent to the campus, whose surrounding areas offer better conditions for implementing a drinking water treatment plant. This strategic location could optimize water treatment processes and reduce energy consumption, presenting a cost-effective solution for water management.
Merchán-Sanmartín highlights, “Our proposed strategies for sustainable management focused on optimizing water use, enhancing water infrastructure, and promoting academic engagement. These strategies can be replicated in other institutions and industries, contributing to a more sustainable future.”
The research supports the concept of living and dynamic laboratories in higher education institutions, where nature-based solutions are applied as sustainable practices in response to global warming. This approach could revolutionize water management strategies in the energy sector, promoting a circular economy and sustainable development.
As climate change intensifies and water scarcity becomes a global challenge, the insights from this study offer a beacon of hope. By embracing nature-based solutions and innovative water management strategies, industries can secure their water future while contributing to ecosystem conservation. The energy sector, in particular, stands to gain from these insights, as water is a critical resource for many of its operations.
In the words of Merchán-Sanmartín, “This research is not just about securing water for a university campus. It’s about demonstrating the potential of nature-based solutions to address global water challenges and promote sustainable development.” The study, published in *Frontiers in Water*, serves as a testament to the power of innovation and sustainability in tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges.