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Standards Development
This document outlines the hydrometry techniques through geological and geophysical considerations for the identification of suitable sites for the construction of subsurface dykes and groundwater dams aimed at water conservation and recharge. It covers the evaluation of geological formations, including soil types, rock permeability, and aquifer characteristics, to ensure the effectiveness of subsurface structures. The standard includes methods for stratigraphic analysis to identify impermeable layers necessary for water retention, as well as hydrogeological mapping techniques to determine groundwater flow patterns and recharge zones. By providing a comprehensive framework for site selection, this standard seeks to promote sustainable water resource management and enhance groundwater recharge through scientifically informed practices.
The purpose of this ISO Standard is to establish a scientifically grounded framework for the identification and evaluation of sites for the construction of subsurface dykes and groundwater dams. These structures are intended to enhance water conservation and groundwater recharge, thereby contributing to sustainable water resource management. Water scarcity is a critical global issue, according to the new report published by UNESCO, on behalf of UN-Water, today 2.2 billion people still live without access to safely managed drinking water and 3.5 billion lack access to safely managed sanitation. Groundwater, which accounts for approximately 30% of the world's fresh water, is being depleted faster than it can be replenished in many regions due to over-extraction and insufficient recharge. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) reports that agriculture alone accounts for 70% of global freshwater withdrawals, highlighting the need for effective water management practices to ensure food security and sustainable development. Subsurface dykes (SSD) and groundwater dams are innovative inverted groundwater conservation structures designed to arrest subsurface flow, thereby enhancing groundwater storage. These structures raise groundwater levels in upstream areas by increasing storage, making more groundwater available to meet various needs, particularly in water-starved or deficient regions. They are also climate-resilient infrastructures capable of taming floods by storing excess water underground, mitigating the impacts of drought and reducing the over-extraction of groundwater. By standardizing the identification of suitable sites for constructing subsurface dykes and groundwater dams, this ISO Standard aims to streamline the process on scientific lines, avoiding unnecessary expenditure at locations that are not feasible. By providing a standardized approach to site identification and evaluation, this ISO Standard will facilitate the implementation of subsurface dykes and groundwater dams worldwide. This will help optimize the use of geological and geophysical data to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of these structures, ultimately contributing to the resilience of water resources in the face of growing demand and climate variability.
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