Integrated water security assessment of Mykolaiv Region, Ukraine

Abstract

The aim of this study is to assesses the water security of the Mykolaiv Region in Ukraine, integrating environmental water availability, agricultural water needs, industrial and domestic water use, and levels of water pollution. The region faces significant challenges, including drying surface waters due to shifting precipitation patterns, rising temperatures, land degradation, as well as pollution from agricultural activities and outdated wastewater treatment systems. The ongoing armed conflict has exacerbated these issues, with infrastructure damage further disrupting water supply and increasing reliance on degraded sources.

A conceptual framework for water security was developed, drawing on the "Web of Water Security" and indicators such as green, blue, and grey water footprints. Using data from regional reports and hydrological models, the study evaluates green water scarcity, blue water scarcity, and pollution levels. Key findings reveal critical green water scarcity, with a regional average index of 2.1, driven by unsustainable agricultural demands and declining soil moisture availability. While blue water resources are underutilised, with a scarcity index of 0.14, inefficiencies such as evaporation and transportation losses as well as insufficient quality for drinking purpose. The grey water footprint highlights severe contamination, with 60% of the natural runoff required to dilute pollutants to acceptable levels.

The study underscores the need for integrated water management strategies, including improvements to infrastructure, pollution control measures, and adaptive agricultural practices. These findings provide a foundation for further research and policy development aimed at ensuring sustainable water security for the Mykolaiv Region.