How does climate change impact water sources, affecting quality and availability, and what are the resulting consequences for water treatment and infrastructure?

Abstract

This abstract addresses a critical research gap by examining the intricate relationship between climate change and wastewater systems, acknowledging their vulnerability to climate-induced effects. Despite being crucial for societal well-being, wastewater systems' susceptibility exposes communities to risks. This comprehensive study analyzes the diverse impacts of climate change on wastewater systems across different timeframes and dimensions.The research begins by evaluating the direct climate-related effects on various components of wastewater systems, including reticulated and on-site systems, and treatment plants. This assessment covers both urban and peri-urban contexts. The identified impacts center on three key themes: nuisance flooding leading to spills and odors, deteriorating water quality from uncontrolled discharges, and physical infrastructure damage.These impacts, both immediate and long-term, resonate widely across social, cultural, environmental, and economic realms. Asset loss disrupts communities, while compromised water quality triggers cascading effects on various aspects of society, environment, economy, and culture. Concurrently, public health risks and economic burdens arise from damages, lost production, and insurance claims. Given the complexity and severity of these impacts, the study considers their distribution among different groups and their manifestation in various contexts and locations. The paper concludes by offering guiding principles for local government decision-makers. These principles serve as a strategic framework for addressing the challenges posed by climate-induced impacts on wastewater systems.In summary, this research enhances our understanding of climate change's consequences for wastewater systems, emphasizing the need for proactive mitigation and adaptation strategies. By highlighting the interconnected nature of social, cultural, economic, and environmental implications, the study underscores the requirement for holistic approaches that ensure the resilience of wastewater systems in an ever-changing climate.