In the heart of Guayaquil, Ecuador, a unique experiment is unfolding at the Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), offering a blueprint for sustainable water management that could ripple through industries worldwide, particularly the energy sector. Researchers, led by Bethy Merchán-Sanmartín from the Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias de la Tierra (FICT), have been exploring how an artificial lake on the university campus can serve as a nature-based solution to water scarcity and drainage challenges.
The study, recently published in *Frontiers in Water* (translated as “Frontiers in Water”), delves into the role of this artificial wetland in maintaining water balance, a critical factor for sustainable development and circular economy practices. “We’re not just looking at a body of water; we’re examining a living lab that could redefine how we manage resources,” Merchán-Sanmartín explains. The artificial lake, acting as a sponge, absorbs excess rainwater, reducing flooding risks and replenishing groundwater supplies during dry periods.
For the energy sector, the implications are substantial. Water is a vital resource for power generation, from cooling thermal plants to hydropower production. As water scarcity intensifies due to climate change, industries are under increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. The ESPOL campus’s artificial lake demonstrates how nature-based solutions can bolster water resilience, ensuring a steady supply for industrial processes.
Moreover, the study highlights the economic benefits. By integrating such systems, industries can reduce infrastructure costs associated with water treatment and drainage. “It’s about working with nature, not against it,” Merchán-Sanmartín notes. This approach aligns with the principles of the circular economy, where waste is minimized, and resources are continuously recycled.
The research also underscores the importance of living labs—real-world testing grounds for innovative solutions. The ESPOL campus serves as a model for other institutions and industries to replicate, fostering a collaborative approach to sustainable development. As Merchán-Sanmartín puts it, “Our goal is to inspire action. If we can do it here, why not elsewhere?”
The findings from this study could shape future developments in water management, offering a scalable model for industries to adopt. As the energy sector grapples with the challenges of water scarcity and sustainability, the lessons from Guayaquil’s artificial lake could provide a much-needed lifeline. The research published in *Frontiers in Water* is a testament to the power of nature-based solutions and their potential to drive commercial and environmental impacts.