A system dynamics approach for water resources management with focusing on domestic water demand

Background: Due to the complexity and interdependence of water resources, the evaluation of the efficiency of water resources management is difficult. So, it is necessary to use effective modeling methods to study and recognize the feedback loops available in water resources systems. Regarding the importance of domestic water for the human health, the aim of this study was to develop a dynamic model with focusing on domestic water management. Methods: This study was performed using a system dynamics approach. The strategies used in this study include population scenarios (ps), water use education scenarios (wu education), and agricultural water management scenarios (Agriwm). Results: There was a significant relationship between education on water saving in domestic sector and water use per capita. In various scenarios of population growth, domestic water use was declined rapidly with education. According to the obtained results, under “ps3-wu education” scenario, lower population growth, and higher water use education, domestic water use will reach the minimum level, by 2041. The results showed that the proposed scenarios can lead to 60% reduction in domestic water use. Conclusion: With education strategy, water use per capita up to 2024 can reach the optimum level of 100 liters per person per day. However, without education even by 2041, this goal is unattainable. So, sustainable goals can be achieved by adopting education strategy. The developed systematic model can be applied in various conditions. In each study area, the regional water and population data should be provided.