CASE STUDY: SNWTP Flashcards
Why was the SNWTP needed?
The humid south of China had a surplus of water, whereas the arid north had water insecurity.
Prior to SNWTP, how was the north obtaining water?
The north’s water supply mainly came from groundwater, which meant that the water table was dropping by 5m a year.
Some wells were up to 1km deep.
Why was water needed in the north?
The north of China hosts the majority of it’s economic development, with major cities like Bejing and Tainjin hosting a combined population of 200mil.
What was consuming water in the north?
Domestic reasons, as well as coal powerstations providing for the large population.
How is it socially sustainable?
In the north it provided clean water to over 20 cities, improving public health and maintaining economic output.
How was it economically unsustainable?
It cost $79bn, which was above the budget before it is even finished. This lead to a large increase in water prices for consumers.
How was it environmentally unsustainable?
The Danjiangkou reservoir displaced habitats and damaged biodiversity.
What is the name of the reservoir that was built?
Danjiangkou.
How many people did construction of the reservoir displace?
345,000
What was the water supply like in the south?
The south was placed under water stress, with 30 million people short of water.
How many gallons were transferred?
12 trillion.
What was another thing that impacted those displaced at danjiangkou?
They had water deficit, which negatively affected crop yields and resulted in people going hungry.
