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| DOI：10.13522/j.cnki.ggps.2025205 |
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| Development and utilization of unconventional water resources in China: Challenges and regional strategies |
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HE Xiyu, YANG Guiyu, WANG Hao, ZHAO Yong, YU Shuang’en, LI Shuoyang, CHANG Cui
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1. China Institute of Water Resources and Hydropower Research, State Key Laboratory of Water Cycle and Water Security,
Beijing 100038, China; 2. College of Agricultural Science and Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
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| Abstract: |
| 【Objective】Water resource problems in China are many and vary, characterized by limited availability and unbalanced spatiotemporal distribution of supply and demand. The increased demand for water is likely to exacerbate this imbalance further. Developing and utilizing unconventional water resources has therefore emerged as an effective strategy to alleviate water scarcity, safeguard ecological security and promote sustainable agricultural development.【Method】Using statistical analysis, regional case studies and policy review, this paper systematically evaluates the status and utilization of unconventional water resources, including reclaimed water, mine water, and moderately saline (brackish) water in China. Taking Xinjiang as an example, we explore the significance of brackish water utilization in remediating saline-alkali soils and controlling desert encroachment.【Result】China has a diverse and substantial amount of unconventional water resources, but their utilization is low. In 2023, total national utilization of unconventional water was 25.16 billion m3, accounting for 4.24% of total water supply; however, their utilization efficiency remains low. There are limited explorations of the abundant brackish water resources in Xinjiang. Also, improper and insufficient utilization of brackish water has contributed to soil and water degradation, creating negative feedback loops in the environment. The substantial amount yet low utilization of unconventional water resources underscores the importance of their rational use in developing water-saving techniques. Based on the principle of coordinated saline-alkali land management and ecological protection, we propose a region-specific strategy for synergistic development of water, soil and agricultural productivity, which includes improving quantitative assessment, spatial mapping, and dynamic resource analysis of brackish water resources to support scientific development in the water supply side. Meanwhile, in water usage side, integrating desalination and ecological and agricultural irrigation practices has room for improvement. Collectively, implementation of these measures can promote sustainable utilization of brackish water resources in regions where freshwater resource is scarce can cannot meet the demand. |
| Key words: unconventional water; water scarcity; brackish-water utilization; Xinjiang |
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