Spatial analysis techniques for assessing groundwater vulnerability: a strategic approach to proactive conservation and mitigation strategies
Published in Earth & Environment
Abstract
Groundwater is a critical resource that supports agriculture and ecosystems which is increasingly threatened by anthropogenic activities and climate change. Despite the advancements in spatial analysis methods, there remains a lack of comprehensive reviews that synthesize these techniques specifically for groundwater vulnerability assessment as existing literature often focuses on isolated methodologies without integrating them into a cohesive framework that addresses the complexities of groundwater systems. Hence, the need for proactive conservation and mitigation strategies on how spatial analysis can enhance groundwater vulnerability assessments is crucial for developing effective policies and practices to safeguard this vital resource. This review evaluates various spatial analysis techniques used in assessing groundwater vulnerability, identifies their strengths and limitations, and proposes a strategic framework for their application in conservation efforts. A systematic literature review focused on peer-reviewed articles published in the last two decades. Techniques such as remote sensing (RS), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA), and statistical modelling were analyzed in terms of their applicability to groundwater vulnerability assessments. The findings reveal that spatial analysis techniques significantly enhance the accuracy of groundwater vulnerability assessments (GVAs) by incorporating diverse data sources such as land use, soil characteristics, and hydrological features. Key results indicate that GIS-based models provide robust frameworks for identifying vulnerable areas, while MCDA facilitates stakeholder engagement by integrating socio-economic factors into decision-making processes. The study concludes that a strategic approach combining various spatial analysis techniques offers a promising pathway for enhancing groundwater vulnerability assessments. This integrated methodology not only aids in identifying vulnerable areas but also supports informed decision-making processes regarding conservation efforts. However, future research should focus on developing standardized protocols for integrating diverse spatial analysis methods and longitudinal studies to assess the long-term effectiveness of implemented conservation strategies based on these assessments.
Follow the Topic
-
Environmental Earth Sciences
This is an international multidisciplinary geosciences journal concerned with anthropogenically altered interactions within the geosphere and between the geosphere–biosphere.
Related Collections
With collections, you can get published faster and increase your visibility.
Clay rocks - Characterization of Natural and Engineered Barriers
Publishing Model: Hybrid
Deadline: Sep 30, 2025
Estuarine Health: understanding system dynamics to build ecosystem resilience using a ‘One Health’ approach
Estuaries occupy a critical position in our coastal systems. They act as funnels transporting water and sediment, major and trace nutrients and organic matter from the terrestrial to the marine system. This dynamic nature creates biodiverse environments and sensitive ecosystems. In addition, they are often excessively impacted by human activities, heavily urbanized by cities and transport infrastructure and contaminated historically by emissions from activities within the catchment. As population and land use change, the increasing pressure of urbanization is further exacerbated by impacts from climate change on coastal currents, river flow and sedimentation.
How will the health and resilience of estuaries be determined by future changes in these pressures? The emergence of the “one health” concept ties the functioning of human and animals with the quality of our environment to drive more sustainable activity. Estuaries affected by increased burdens of agrochemicals, emerging and historical contaminants, disease and disruptions to material and biogeochemical cycles require evaluation. We need to identify indicators which allow more sustainable management, to protect ecosystems, food resources, animal and human health. /p>
The special issue has significant public policy relevance as these critical coastal ecosystems face growing pressures from urbanization and climate change. By understanding how the health and resilience of estuaries are affected by anthropogenic activities and environmental stressors, policymakers can develop targeted strategies to mitigate risks and promote sustainable management practices. Identifying appropriate indicators for ecosystem management can inform regulatory frameworks and conservation initiatives, ultimately ensuring the protection of estuarine ecosystems and their vital contributions to societal well-being. Taking a one health approach, we welcome contributions, reviewing individual estuarine cases, present fundamental research on underpinning environmental system dynamics and ecological function to propose or discuss future needs and the emergence of complex issues such as antimicrobial resistance (AMR) under the ever-increasing threats from climate change.
Publishing Model: Hybrid
Deadline: Jul 20, 2025
Please sign in or register for FREE
If you are a registered user on Research Communities by Springer Nature, please sign in