Current Research in Environmental Sustainability (Jan 2022)
Integration of social, economic, and environmental dimensions in designing rural water supply systems, A study in Sri Lanka
Abstract
This present study attempted to understand the applicability of the existing social and environmental determinants in rural communities to design and manage a water supply system and to introduce a novel approach to incorporate concepts of the social-environmental index (SEI) with principal component analysis (PCA) and water quality monitoring. On top of that, identification of ground-level strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) to implement a sustainable water supply system in the study area. Semi-structured questionnaire surveys were analyzed (n = 110 in Bulathkohupitiya, Deiyanwala, and Ganepalla and n = 100 in Anhettigama, Theligama, and Miyanawita sampling sites) among water-deficient communities through random sampling techniques to explore socio-economic, demographic, and environmental factors. Related to water analysis, the water quality of water sources was monitored. Then, PCA was conducted, SEI was calculated, and key informants and focus group discussion were followed to understand stakeholder perspectives. Finally, SWOT was conducted to assess the sustainable implementation of RWSS. In terms of SEI, Bulathkohupitiya (SEI = 1869.7) and Miyanawita (SEI = 765.2) were higher significance areas for water supply and sanitation improvement. SWOT analysis highlighted the elevated total coliform and Escherichia coli bacterial colonies of potential water sources alarmed the risk of fecal contaminations upstream and expressed a need for ensuring the safe drinking treated water in the locality. The key stakeholders asserted water and sanitation as a key issue intersectional with health, economic, and social aspects while focus group discussions pointed the women participation in water supply and sanitation.
