INTRODUCTION
Problem statement
Water is an invaluable resource that has faced significant degradation in both quantity and quality in recent years This pressing issue necessitates a global commitment to sustainable water management Improved water supply and sanitation have enhanced living conditions, while promoting social justice and education, particularly for women and children, plays a crucial role in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDG).
The Island faces significant challenges in water resources management due to its isolation, environmental changes, and climate change impacts, including altered rainfall patterns Situated in the vulnerable Southwestern region, it is particularly susceptible to climate change and rising sea levels, as well as the early effects of El Niño and La Niña phenomena Despite these challenges, the Island serves as a vital economic zone, supporting key activities such as fishing, oil and gas exploitation, maritime services, and tourism, while also being strategically located near neighboring countries.
Phu Quoc Island, the largest in Vietnam's coastal island system, faces significant social pressures due to economic development, impacting both its natural resources and environmental management Despite long-term extraction of resources like water, oil, and gas, there is a lack of rational planning and efficient use of these natural resources Consequently, freshwater resources are crucial for daily life and the island's development However, assessments of freshwater resource vulnerability in Vietnam, particularly on the island, remain limited.
Quoc Island plays a crucial role in identifying potential risks to its freshwater resources, aiding in informed decision-making Early detection of threats is vital for developing sustainable management solutions, especially in an area where freshwater resource exploitation remains challenging.
Understanding the vulnerability of freshwater resources in the Islands is crucial for sustainable water management The relationship between water use and land use significantly impacts ecosystems, emphasizing the need for integrated water resource management (IWRM) IWRM aims to protect and utilize natural resources effectively Conducting a vulnerability assessment of freshwater resources will reveal information gaps and identify key factors influencing vulnerability, while also raising public awareness Such evaluations empower decision-makers to assess and adjust existing policies, leading to improved management of water resources.
Various methods for assessing the vulnerability of water resources and hydrological systems have been developed over time, each with its own pros and cons A notable recent advancement in vulnerability assessment comes from the United Nations Environment Program and Packing University, focusing on resource availability for production, usage, environmental pressure mitigation, and capacity management This approach identifies key vulnerability factors, including climate change, population growth, and economic development, particularly affecting freshwater resources Currently, it is applied in regions such as the Pacific Islands, West and South Asia, and the Mekong River basin, but its application in Vietnam's island freshwater resources remains limited This study represents the first application of this vulnerability assessment method on islands in Vietnam.
Objectives and Research questions
The main objectives of the study include:
- Piloting a method in terms of assessing the freshwater vulnerability in the southwestern area of Vietnams: applied specifically on Phu Quoc – Kien Giang Province;
- Assessing vulnerability of freshwater resources on the Island of Phu Quoc – Kien Giang and potential agents;
- Providing scientifically-based evidence to support policy development of water resources management, to support the decision-making process;
- Proposing measures to reduce the vulnerability of freshwater resources on the Phu Quoc Island
- What methods and tools are appropriate to assess the vulnerability of freshwater resources on the Island?
- Which elements are vulnerable to freshwater resources?
- What are the opportunities and challenges regarding to freshwater resources management in the Island?
- What are solutions that should be done to improve the freshwater resources in the Island?
The Assessment Process
Water is vital for all forms of life, yet freshwater resources are increasingly vulnerable, necessitating a reliable vulnerability assessment This study employs a methodology developed by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and Peking University to evaluate freshwater resource vulnerability It involves collecting relevant data on natural conditions, hydrology, environment, and geology from local agencies, alongside conducting fieldwork to update the current status of water resources The assessment utilizes the DPSIR framework (Driver, Pressure, State, Impact, and Response) to analyze both quantitative and qualitative aspects of vulnerability An integrated vulnerability index (VI) is calculated based on identified parameters, ultimately leading to recommendations aimed at mitigating the vulnerability of freshwater resources on Phu Quoc Island.
Structure of the thesis
This report consists of six chapters, with the first chapter focusing on the significance of vulnerability assessments It addresses three key questions: the importance of conducting a vulnerability assessment, the methods for evaluating the island's vulnerabilities, and the primary objectives of the assessment within this study.
The chapter two reviews several studies about the concept of vulnerability, vulnerability assessment methods and some previous researches relate to study area
Chapter three provides an overview of freshwater resources, highlighting the geographical, natural, and socio-economic contexts It emphasizes the current status and management challenges of freshwater resources on the island Additionally, the chapter addresses the significant impacts of climate change and environmental pressures on these vital resources.
Chapter four outlines various methods for evaluating the vulnerability of freshwater resources It highlights the specific assessment approach utilized by UNEP, which includes methods such as the diagnosis of issues and the DPSIR analytical framework to comprehend the vulnerability index (VI) Additionally, the chapter discusses the data employed in the thesis.
Chapter five of the report focuses on assessing the vulnerability of freshwater resources on Phu Quoc Island in Kien Giang Province It highlights the critical interconnections between socio-economic factors, environmental conditions, climate, geography, and resource management in relation to the island's freshwater vulnerability The chapter examines key indicators and parameters, such as water stress, development pressure, ecosystem insecurity, and management challenges, to calculate a vulnerability index Furthermore, it proposes measures aimed at mitigating the vulnerability of these freshwater resources.
Chapter six summarizes the key findings of this thesis, addresses its limitations, and offers recommendations for future research directions.
LITERATURE REWIEW
Concepts of vulnerability
The understanding of vulnerability has evolved significantly, with over 25 definitions and methods identified in current literature (Birkmann, 2006) Vulnerability encompasses the expression, sensitivity, and resilience of systems in facing threats (Downing, 2006) While natural scientists often emphasize risk, social scientists focus on vulnerability, linking it to socioeconomic factors and community resilience in the face of natural disasters In contrast, climate scientists view vulnerability as a function of the likelihood and potential impact of climate-related events.
According to Jửrn Birkmann (2006) statistics, one of the best-known definitions were formulated by the International Strategy for Disaster Reduction (UN/ISDR), which defines vulnerability as:
- The conditions determined by physical, social, economic and environmental factors or processes, which increase the susceptibility of a community to the impact of hazards (UN/ISDR, 2004)
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) defines vulnerability as a human condition influenced by physical, social, economic, and environmental factors, which collectively determine the potential extent of damage from specific hazards (UNDP, 2004: 11).
Effective integrated water resources management policies necessitate a thorough understanding of water resource vulnerability This term refers to the inherent weaknesses or flaws within the system, highlighting its sensitivity to threats and challenges it encounters Recognizing these vulnerabilities is crucial for developing robust management strategies.
In the context of water resource management, vulnerability refers to the inherent weaknesses within water resource systems that hinder their ability to adapt to evolving economic, social, and environmental conditions This vulnerability can be assessed by examining (i) the pressures faced by water resources in the study area and (ii) the capacity of ecosystems and communities to combat factors that disrupt the healthy functioning of these systems.
Vulnerability assessment
Water is essential for the functioning of natural ecosystems and is a critical resource for human socioeconomic development However, excessive population growth, rapid economic development, and mismanagement of water resources have led to a decline in water availability As a result, sustainable management of water resources has emerged as a key priority on many national agendas.
Vulnerability assessment involves analyzing a system's sensitivity to potential threats and identifying key challenges in mitigating risks posed by opposition activists Evaluating water resources requires calculating the balance between supply and demand, alongside policies and ownership that promote conservation and management Additionally, it is essential to account for hydrological changes due to climate change and other environmental factors, as well as risks from surrounding areas that may impact water resources.
A vulnerability assessment is essential for optimizing water resource management by creating a prioritized upgrade plan and adjusting operational procedures to mitigate risks This assessment establishes a foundational framework for developing strategies to minimize risks and associated costs It identifies key issues, delineates control factors, estimates pressures, analyzes current conditions and trends, and determines effective responses to address vulnerabilities in water resource systems.
Previous studies in study area
Phu Quoc Island, the largest island in Vietnam's coastal island system, is located in the Gulf of Thailand in the southwestern region of the country Research on the island's water resources is scarce, highlighting a gap in knowledge The southwestern coastal islands play a crucial role in national security and economic development Notable projects in the Phu Quoc Island area underscore its significance.
In 2006, Dr Dao Manh Tien and Dr Pham Van Thanh conducted a project to assess the marine environment of Phu Quoc Island at depths of 0 to 20 meters Their findings evaluated the island's marine resources and examined the environmental conditions of both sediments and seawater.
- Dr Dao Manh Tien (2008) to implement the project "Investigation of environmental geology and geohazards coast of Phu Quoc - Ha Tien rate 1/100,000"
Phu Quoc Island, particularly its National Park, has been the focus of extensive biodiversity studies Research conducted by the Institute of Forest Inventory and Planning II in 1996 and 2002 provides a comprehensive assessment of the area's flora and fauna, serving as a foundation for evaluating the biological diversity and resources of Phu Quoc National Park.
The National Center for Water Resources Planning and Investigation (NAWAPI) conducted a project in 2010 focused on water resources planning for Phu Quoc Island This planning serves as a foundational framework for the management of water resources in the region.
Kien Giang Province implementation of management measures, protection and exploitation and use of water resources on the Phu Quoc Island
- Vietnam Academy for Water resources (2010), Project “ Research, evaluate the potential exploitation of surface water sources serving water supply on Phu Quoc Island”
Previous studies in Vietnam indicate that many elements on the islands are adversely affected by socioeconomic development and changes in the natural environment Vulnerability assessments of freshwater resources are particularly limited in Vietnam, especially concerning islands where water resources are highly susceptible to these impacts.
Overview of assessment methods
A comprehensive approach to evaluate the vulnerability of water resources and hydrological systems has been established over time, utilizing various methods, including the Water Poverty Index (WPI) as proposed by Lawrence et al (2002) and Sullivan et al.
In 2003, an interdisciplinary measure was developed to assess the benefits of household water and its impact on human well-being This index considers both physical and socio-economic factors related to water scarcity, highlighting the importance of water availability for communities.
The Water Stress Indicator (WSI), developed by Swedish expert Falkenmark in 1989, assesses the available water resources in a country This index is commonly utilized for national evaluations, offering intuitive insights based on available data However, relying on the average annual water resources of a country can mask critical information regarding water scarcity at smaller scales.
Meigh et al (2004) introduced the Water Availability Index (WAI), which assesses water availability by considering both surface and groundwater resources in relation to the total water demand across various sectors, including industry and agriculture.
Water stress, as defined by Gleick (1996), is assessed at the regional level using an index that incorporates measurements of water input and output, grounded in the water balance equation.
The South Pacific Applied Geoscience Commission (SOPAC) created the Environmental Vulnerability Index (EVI) in 2005 to highlight the challenges faced by small islands This index assesses environmental vulnerability by examining the impacts of both natural and human-induced risks on various ecological factors, including physical and biological aspects, habitat, biodiversity, and ecological resilience.
Various evaluation methods exist for assessing water resource vulnerability, each with its own advantages and disadvantages The Method of Water Resources Vulnerability Assessment, developed by UNEP and Peking University in 2009, provides an effective framework for this evaluation This approach considers the resources available for production, usage, environmental pressures, and management capacity, while emphasizing vulnerability factors such as climate change, population growth, and economic development Currently, this method has been successfully applied to assess water resource vulnerability in regions including the Pacific Islands, West Asia, South Asia, and river basins like the Mekong and Amu Darya.
Research on the vulnerability assessment of sea environmental resources in Vietnam began in the late twentieth century, with various studies exploring different approaches, including regional, natural, and social systems The core principle of vulnerability assessment is to evaluate the capacity of compromised systems—natural, social, and economic—to withstand both natural and man-made disasters, ultimately determining their resilience and recovery potential Since 2001, Prof Dr Mai Trong Nhuan's team has focused on assessing coastal vulnerability, identifying at-risk segments of society and nature, and proposing mitigation measures based on vulnerability maps Additionally, the assessment of water resource vulnerability has been initiated, exemplified by the research project on river resources in the Thach Han and Nhue Day basins, conducted by Trinh Minh Ngoc and colleagues in 2013, utilizing methodologies from UNEP and Peking University.
2013) However, this approach on the Island is still not applied
For Southwestern areas, the densely populated island group also has studied
According to Prof Le Duc An's evaluation in 1995, the southwestern region exhibits significant variations in natural conditions and resources The project "Research on Natural Conditions and Environmental Economic Development in the Southwestern Areas for Security and Sovereignty" led by Prof Do Ngoc Quynh highlights critical factors such as sea disasters and the environmental impacts of climate change Notably, the southwestern areas, particularly the island systems, lack comprehensive studies with up-to-date data on natural conditions, resources, and the environment, with freshwater resources being the most vulnerable.
DESCRIPTION OF THE STUDY AREA
Geography and Socioeconomics
Phu Quoc, or Pearl Island, is Vietnam's largest island, situated in the Gulf of Thailand Covering an area of 567.55 km², it is roughly the size of Singapore The Phu Quoc District encompasses a total area of 589.23 km², with a perimeter of about 150 km, and includes 2 towns and 8 communes.
Duong Dong Town, located in the northwest is the administrative town of the Island Phu Quoc is located 120 km from Rach Gia and Ha Tien town by 45 km
Phu Quoc Island lies in the Gulf of Thailand in Southwest of Vietnam, Phu Quoc stretches from latitude 9°53' to 10°28' and longitude from 103°49'to 104°05'
Figure 3.1: Location of Phu Quoc Island on satellite images
(Source: Google Earth) luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si b) Topography
Phu Quoc Island features diverse topography, predominantly characterized by hilly terrain According to NAWAPI (2010), the island's topography can be categorized into two distinct areas, each exhibiting unique characteristics.
North Island covers approximately 400 km², with over 70% of its terrain consisting of mountains that have an average slope of 25-30% The remaining landscape includes less than 30% of low hills and flat land The overall elevation of the topography decreases from the north to the south and from the east to the west.
The South Island covers an area of approximately 1,672 km² and features a landscape characterized by low mountains and alternating strips of relatively flat land The terrain gradually slopes from the northeast to the southwest, with an incline of less than 15%.
Currently, it is being used or capable of use for agricultural production Follwing are the results of the natural distribution according to altitude and slop
Table 3.1: Distribution by altitude and degree slope Altitude
(m) Slope Current status and potential use Area (km 2 ) Percentage (%)
Source: National Center for Water Resources Planning and Investigation
Phu Quoc Island has a meteorological station established in 1957 in Duong Dong town, which monitors key weather factors such as temperature, humidity, evaporation, wind, sunlight, and rainfall By 1995, two additional water level stations were installed at the White Bridge on the Cua Can River and at the Tram station, enhancing the island's meteorological data collection capabilities.
Duong Dong river Oceanographic stations are located in the estuarine areas of Duong Dong
The specific datas on temperature, humidity, wind, etc of Phu Quoac were provided by Kien Giang Hydrometeorology Center.
Phu Quoc Island experiences a tropical monsoon climate with an average annual temperature of 27.1°C The island has an annual evaporation rate of 1,210 mm, which translates to approximately 3.3 mm per day The average humidity throughout the year is 82.6%, peaking in October at 87.8% and reaching its lowest point in February at 75.5% (NAWAPI 2010).
Phu Quoc Island experiences abundant annual rainfall, averaging 2902 mm, with a stable distribution over the years (coefficient of variation Cv = 0.176) (NAWAPI 2010) The consistent rainfall, combined with the mountainous terrain, creates ideal conditions for the development, management, and operation of small and medium reservoirs on the island.
Table 3.2: Temperature characteristics (0C) at Phu Quoc Station (1984-2011)
Characteristics I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Year
Table 3.3: Average humidity by months – year (%)
Month I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Year
(Source: Kien Giang Hydrometeorology Center)
Table 3.4 Lowest humidity by months – year (%)
Month I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Year
(Source: Kien Giang Hydrometeorology Center)
Table 3.5: Characteristics of rain in Phu Quoc
Month I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII Year
Highest rainfall per day mm 77.9 112.2 103.2 127.1 109.6 126.8 196.5 327.1 188.4 181.2 136 105.4 327.1 Average monthly rainfall mm 32 28 66 154 260 365 390 474 458 355 145 52 277.9
(Source: Kien Giang Hydrometeorology Cent
Analysis of rainfall data from Phu Quoc stations for the period from 1985 to
2011 shows that total annual rainfall has decreased by an average of 19.8 mm /year (Nguyen Ngoc Tran 2013)
Figure 3.2: Total annual rainfall in Phu Quoc station (1985 – 2011)
(Source: Kien Giang Hydrometeorology Cente)
Water level data from the Phu Quoc station indicates the maximum and minimum tide heights, along with the average trend line for the period from 1988 to 2010 Additionally, it presents the annual average tidal amplitude and its average trend line over the same years.
2009) are shown in the image below:
Figure 3.3: Hmax, Hmin in Phu Quoc island
(Source: Kien Giang Hydrometeorology Center) luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Figure 3.4: Tidal amplitude in Phu Quoc island
(Source: Kien Giang Hydrometeorology Center)
Tidal amplitude has the trend increased both on tidal and tidal foot The maximum tide height, minimum tide height for the period (1988 – 2010) tend to increased
Phu Quoc Island experiences a distinct division of seasons based on hydrometeorological standards, with a rainy season lasting seven months from May to November, coinciding with the active southwest monsoon, and a dry season spanning five months from December to April, aligned with the northeast monsoon April, with an average rainfall of 150 mm at Duong Dong station, serves as a transition month due to significant rainfall in its latter days The rainy season contributes to 81% of the island's total rainfall, leading to excess water during this period and water shortages in the dry season Additionally, the island's steep topography causes rapid runoff, resulting in severe flooding from July to September, which poses risks to infrastructure, causes land erosion, and threatens the safety of residents.
Phu Quoc Island features a variety of rivers and streams, particularly small rivers and estuaries that flow in different directions due to the island's diverse terrain During the rainy season, surface water is abundant inland, and the island boasts a spring density of 0.42 km/km², the highest among Vietnamese islands The two main river systems cover approximately 25% of the island's total area, and their steep slopes contribute to significant erosion during flood seasons.
The Cua Can River, originating from Chua Mountain, flows from east to west and spans a length of 29.75 km In total, the river's length within its basin reaches approximately 69 km, encompassing a catchment area of 120 km².
The Dong Duong River originates from Da Bac Mountain and flows from east to west It spans a length of 21.5 km, while the total length of its river and stream network is approximately 63 km, covering a catchment area of 57 km².
The Cua Lap River, originating from the Ham Ninh mountain, flows westward to the sea and is interconnected with several smaller rivers Spanning a length of 11 km, the river is part of a larger system that extends approximately 45 km, encompassing a catchment area of 21 km².
The Tram River originates from Ham Ninh Mountain and Ham Rong, flowing northward for a length of 9 km Overall, the river spans approximately 22 km, with a catchment area of 41.2 km².
The Suoi Lon River originates from Ham Ninh Mountain and flows in an east-west direction before merging with the Dam River, which then continues to flow from west to east This river spans a length of 15 kilometers and has a catchment area of 8 square kilometers.
Freshwater Resources
Rainwater is crucial for replenishing both surface water reserves and groundwater on the Island, making rainfall a key factor in assessing the Island's potential water resources Additionally, it is essential to collect rainwater through various methods for domestic water use.
Phu Quoc Island experiences abundant annual rainfall, averaging 2902 mm, which remains stable over the years The combination of heavy rainfall and mountainous terrain creates ideal conditions for the development, management, and operation of small and medium reservoirs on the island.
Total rainfall for the month was 2.570 mm in the rainy season, accounting for 89% of annual rainfall Dry season rainfall of 332 mm, accounting for 11% of annual rainfall (NAWAPI 2010)
Rainfall (mm) 2902 2570 89 332 11 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
(Source: NAWAPI ) b) Surface water resources
Phu Quoc Island features a network of small rivers, including the Tram river system in the north, Cua Can, Duong Dong, and Cai Lap rivers in the center, and Suoi Lon and Dam rivers in the south Among these, the Cua Can river is the most significant, with a basin area of 150 km², followed by the Duong Dong river, which has a basin area of 60 km².
During the rainy season, rivers and streams experience significant flow discharge, while in the dry season, their flow diminishes considerably, with some streams even drying up The maximum flow recorded in the dry season is only 120.5 liters per second.
The reservoir was built in Duong Dong, effective capacity of 3.3 million m3
Due to the uneven distribution of water resources, in the dry season, local water shortages are offen happend Duong Dong town and An Thoi town (NAWAPI 2010).
The assessment of water resources on Phu Quoc Island focuses on river flow data collected from hydraulic constructions According to the 2010 project by the Vietnam Academy for Water Resources, titled "Research and Evaluation of the Potential Exploitation of Surface Water Sources for Water Supply on Phu Quoc Island," the survey revealed that the island has abundant rainfall resources, with an average annual flow of approximately 950 million m³.
Table 3.8: Characteristics of the average monthly flow in some places
I II III IV V VI VII VIII IX X XI XII
Cua Can 1 0,513 0,374 0,742 1,911 3,539 4,752 5,494 6,792 5,435 4,774 2,015 0,699 3,087 Cua Can 2 0,265 0,193 0,383 0,986 1,826 2,453 2,836 3,506 2,805 2,464 1,040 0,361 1,593 Duong Đong 0,141 0,103 0,203 0,524 0,970 1,303 1,506 1,862 1,490 1,309 0,553 0,192 0,846 Cua Lap 0,174 0,127 0,251 0,647 1,199 1,610 1,861 2,300 1,841 1,617 0,683 0,237 1,045 Rach Ca 0,091 0,066 0,132 0,339 0,628 0,843 0,975 1,205 0,964 0,847 0,358 0,124 0,548 Suoi Lon 1 0,066 0,048 0,096 0,247 0,457 0,613 0,709 0,876 0,701 0,616 0,260 0,090 0,398 Suoi Lon 2 0,041 0,030 0,060 0,154 0,285 0,383 0,443 0,548 0,438 0,385 0,163 0,056 0,249
(Source: Intitute of Water Resources Planning South) c) Ground water resources
Groundwater is plentiful, with shallow aquifers evenly spread across the region However, accessing true aquifer water in the northern area poses challenges; for example, in Ganh Dau, attempts to bore two pits to depths of 30 to 40 meters were unsuccessful in yielding water (NAWAPI 2010).
- Potential reserves groundwater is calculated by the water balance method over Phu Quoc Island is 102.553m3 / day Unconfined aquifer about 77.211 m3/day, confined aquifer about 25.342 m3/day
The results calculated potential reserves throughout the region, summarized in the following table:
Table 3.9 : Reserve potential underground water
Potential reserves (m3/day) Move reserve Static reserve
1 Unconfined aquifer 60.243 16.967 77.211 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Potential reserves (m3/day) Move reserve Static reserve
3.2.2 Current status of exploitation and use of water resources
Phu Quoc Island primarily relies on groundwater and surface water to meet its socioeconomic development needs While rainwater is utilized for limited agricultural activities in both rural and urban areas, it constitutes a minor portion compared to the significant reliance on groundwater resources.
Current state of works exploitation of water resources
Phu Quoc Islan has 14.810 works exploitation and use of water resources (NAWAPI 2010)
- Number of groundwater exploitation is 14 291 works, accounting for 96.5%;
- The number of surface water exploitation 519 works accounting for 3.5%
Figure 3.8: Works classification of the exploitation and use of water resources
(Source: NAWAPI luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Figure 3.9: Current exploitation and use of water on Phu Quoc Island
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Vùng các rạch nhỏ phía Đông
Vùng rạch cÇu sÊu - Suèi Lín
Vùng Rạch Tràm vùng rạch D-ơng đông
luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Calculate and forecast water demand for the different sectors based on water standards, oriented socio – economic development of Phu Quoc island defined in the following documents:
- Decision No 178/2004 / QD-TTg, October 5, 2004 of the Prime Minister approving the Master Plan of Development for Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang Province by 2010, with a vision to 2020;
- Decision No 1197/2005 / QD-TTg, November 9, 2005 by the Prime Minister for approval, "The general planning of the construction of Phu Quoc Island, the province Kien Giang Province to 2020 ";
- Decision No 2200/2007 / QD-PPC, November 9, 2007 of the People's Committee of Kien Giang province approved "Plan for industrial development district of Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang Province 2006-2010, with a vision to 2020”
- The water demand for domestic use in urban area is calculated according to Vietnamese standard in the Decision so1197 / QD-TTg, November 9, 2005 of the Prime Minister: In 2010 - 2015: 110-120 l/ person/day;
Water demand for public services, along with water loss and treatment requirements, is guided by QCXDVN 01: 2008 / BXD Between 2007 and 2010, water losses accounted for 20% of domestic demand across sectors such as domestic use, tourism, industry, environment, and public services This percentage decreased to 15% during the period from 2010 to 2020.
- According to the technical process of fisheries, the aquaculture freshwater use of about 12.000m3 / ha / year
- Demand water for agriculture, including irrigation of crops and livestock
- For industrial areas, water demand is calculated based on QCXDVN 01:
2008 / BXD is 40 m3/day/ ha Water demand for handicraft production took 10% of water demand activities luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
According to the calculation by NAWAPI, the total amount of fresh water is used for agricultural, tourism, manufacturing industry, aquaculture is about 18,282.10 6 m3/ year on the island in 2007
Table 3.10: Synthesis using water of the sectors in 2007 Sectors
The synthesized results of calculations indicate the demand for water resources across various socio-economic sectors on Phu Quoc Island, categorized by industry and planning period, as detailed in the table below.
Table 3.11: Demand using water resources on Phu Quoc island
Thus, the water use for about 34,56.10 6 m 3 in 2012 luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Untreated domestic wastewater on Phu Quoc Island is often discharged directly into the environment, primarily affecting the local river network The rivers and streams in areas such as Duong Dong, An Thoi, and Ganh Dau, along with several smaller rivers on the eastern part of the island, serve as the main recipients of this pollution.
Phu Quoc Island currently has limited residential and tourist areas equipped with wastewater collection systems However, these systems are not yet processing wastewater, as the treatment facilities are still in the testing phase Consequently, wastewater is primarily discharged into rivers, onto the ground, and some is released directly into the sea Presently, only Duong Dong town has established a sewerage system capable of handling 70,000 m³ per day, which accounts for 80% of the town's total wastewater volume (NAWAPI 2010).
In Duong Dong town, wastewater is collected via a combined sewer system that channels both wastewater and stormwater into the same pipes, which are then discharged directly into the Duong Dong River Meanwhile, in the An Thoi town area, wastewater is discharged directly into the harbor.
The total volume of wastewater on Phu Quoc Island (NAWAPI 2010)
- Domestic wastewater, and tourism wastewater, by 75% of the water used;
- Wastewater from industrial areas by 60% of the water used.
Challenges of water resources
Island developing regions encounter significant challenges in managing freshwater resources due to limited technical and financial capabilities Additionally, unique factors such as population growth, economic development, heightened vulnerability to natural disasters like typhoons, and geographical isolation exacerbate the risks to their water resources Environmental threats, including rapid regional development, tourism expansion, climate change, deforestation, and natural disasters, impact these communities significantly (NAWAPI 2010).
Phu Quoc Island faces a critical issue with drought, particularly during the dry season when water shortages become severe This scarcity hampers the cultivation of specialty crops like cashew, making it challenging to expand agricultural productivity Additionally, drought conditions persist even during years of reduced rainfall in the rainy season.
According to the local records, about 3-4 years has 1 year of water shortage for production and domestic
Steep terrain leads to rapid concentration of rainwater, resulting in short drainage times of just 1 to 2 days Flood-prone areas, including Cua Can and Duong Dong downriver, have experienced challenges; however, the flood situation in Duong Dong downriver has improved somewhat due to the effective operation of upriver reservoirs.
In recent years, migration from the mainland to the island, along with the production and trading activities of local residents, has had both direct and indirect negative effects on the environment.
Excessive groundwater exploitation is causing a decline in underground water levels, particularly affecting the quality of groundwater in coastal areas due to increased salinity Coastal resorts are currently relying on these groundwater sources to meet their demands, while wastewater is being discharged directly into the environment.
Currently, only 60% of solid waste generated in domestic areas is collected, while the remaining waste is either self-treated or discharged into the natural environment In the town of Duong Dong and An The, waste collectors primarily rely on two open landfills, where waste is either burned or buried This inadequate waste management significantly impacts both the quality and quantity of water resources in the area.
During the dry season in December, saltwater begins to intrude into the estuary from rivers and streams due to low rainfall, high evaporation, and reduced river flow, coinciding with the year's highest tides The most significant saltwater intrusion typically occurs in February and March, gradually decreasing as rainfall increases.
3.3.5 Climate Change luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Climate change significantly impacts the hydrological cycle, leading to extreme weather events that affect water availability and quality Phu Quoc Island, located in a climate change-affected region, faces alterations in both the quantity and quality of its water due to rising sea levels This situation increases the risk of drought and threatens future water sources on the island.
The island's population is expected to grow significantly in the coming decades, particularly in urban areas This increase will heighten the demand for water and place additional pressure on the island's limited water resources Furthermore, the influx of immigrants from the mainland will further affect water availability.
Water scarcity is assessed through metrics such as per capita water availability and the percentage of water utilized Access to water is influenced by political, social, and economic factors, with population growth being a significant driver of scarcity An increasing population leads to heightened demand and competition for water across domestic, industrial, and municipal sectors The rapid rise in population and urbanization heightens the risk of water shortages, adversely affecting livelihoods, health, and security.
Table 3.12: Summary of highlighted issues in water resources
- Lack of clean drinking water in the dry season
- Groundwater quality is not good
- Inundation, localized flooding occurs at some point
- Saline intrusion into the river in the dry season
- The risk of saltwater intrusion of underground aquifersaquifers luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
- Inundation often occurs in the rainy season
- Drought and water shortage in the dry season
- Saline intrusion in the dry season
3 Duong Dong River - Inundation, localized flooding in the rainy season
- Saline intrusion in the dry season
4 Small River in the East - Saline intrusion in the dry season
- The risk of saltwater intrusion of underground
- Drought, irrigation water shortages in the dry season
- Saline intrusion in the dry season
6 Cau Sau- Suoi Lon River
- Drought, water shortages in the dry season
- Saline intrusion into the river in the dry season
- The risk of saltwater intrusion of underground
(Source: NAWAPI) luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
METHODOLOGY AND DATA USED
Approach
An assessment of the vulnerability of freshwater to environmental change in the islands, with approach was also presented based on methodological guidelines prepared by UNEP and Peking University (UNEP 2009)
A methodology for assessing the vulnerability of freshwater resources has been developed specifically for river basins, rather than islands The successful application of this method in various regions, including the Pacific Islands, South Asia, West Asia, Africa, and the Mekong river basin, demonstrates its flexibility Therefore, implementing this assessment method is essential for freshwater resources on the islands of Vietnam.
These changes highlight the challenges of using river basin indicators for Pacific islands, emphasizing the distinct vulnerabilities of island water resources rather than indicating varying levels of vulnerability.
This approach is based on the application of the DPSIR (Drivers, Pressures, State, Impacts and Responses) analytical framework for assessing vulnerability index
The UNEP (2009) vulnerability assessment methodology posits that a system's vulnerability is influenced by three key factors: stress, adaptation, and cooperation These factors are believed to interact across four essential components.
Analyzing the hydrological balance is essential before assessing total water resources and their usage This involves understanding the natural hydrological processes influenced by global climate change and local biophysical conditions.
Effective water resource development requires a thorough analysis of supply and demand to ensure balance It is crucial to evaluate water supply resources and understand the technical approaches to their development The relationship between water resource management and economic growth, as well as public health, plays a significant role in this process Additionally, addressing development pressures, such as water extraction and the enhancement of drinking water quality, is essential for sustainable water resource management.
Ecological health is crucial for sustainable economic development, as it encompasses the water needs for domestic use and various economic sectors while ensuring the island's ecological integrity The health of ecosystems is assessed by examining ecosystem degradation and water quality Environmental pollution, resulting from water development and usage, significantly impacts the island's water resource budget, highlighting the need for effective management to mitigate pollution and preserve ecological health.
Effective management and governance are crucial for enhancing water resource management, focusing on efficient water use, Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) capacity, and improving access to sanitation Assessing and evaluating institutional trends and other factors is essential to address the challenges in managing freshwater resources.
This assessment approach recognizes that a sustainable freshwater systems can only operate within a framework of integrated system combines both natural and managed systems.
Diagnosis of Issues
To evaluate the vulnerability of freshwater resources on the Island, it is essential to gather fundamental data from various sources concerning the socio-economic conditions, basic water resources, and their management and usage Additionally, conducting a field trip to the Island's region is necessary for a preliminary assessment of water resource-related issues The findings from this initial analysis will highlight the primary functions and critical challenges associated with the Island's water resources.
Figure 4.1: Assessment components and indicators
The analytical framework
The DPSIR framework, which stands for Drivers, Pressures, State, Impacts, and Responses, is utilized by the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) and the Global Environment Outlook (GEO) to assess vulnerability Originally developed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) in 1994, this analytical tool has been adopted by UNEP in various reports since then, including those from 1994 and 2007, as well as by the European Environmental Agency.
The study aims to identify key vulnerable freshwater islands through both quantitative and qualitative methods An analytical framework was established, resulting in a freshwater vulnerability index that integrates various factors, including economic, social, ecological, and institutional aspects, to create a straightforward analytical tool (UNEP 2012).
Drivers (D) represent the development of social, demographic, economic and lifestyle changes in consumption or production Changing demographics may impact land use, urbanization, agriculture
Drivers exert pressures (P) on water resources, leading to the production of substances such as emissions and the influence of physical and biological agents These pressures ultimately result in changes to the state (S) of water resources.
The state of an ecosystem can be assessed using various indicators, including structural (river morphology), physical (temperature), chemical (phosphorus and nitrogen concentrations), and biological (phytoplankton or fish abundance) factors Changes in these indicators can lead to both positive and negative consequences for society, which are identified and evaluated through specific impact evaluation indices.
Governance and management responses encompass various strategies, including governance policies, market-driven approaches, and social initiatives aimed at mitigating impacts or adapting to them.
Figue 4.2 : DPSIR analysis of water management
Vulnerability Index and Parameterization
The vulnerability of an island‟s freshwater resources can be expressed as a vulnerability index (VI) Thus, the VI in the Island can be expressed with this equation:
VI = f ( RS , DP , ES , MC )
Management Challenges (MC) involve assessing vulnerability, which ranges from 0 to 1, where a value of 1.0 signifies the highest level of vulnerability and 0 indicates complete safety To ensure consistency, all parameters must be standardized within this range The contribution of each parameter to the vulnerability index should be evaluated and weighted based on its significance It is essential to identify and quantify each parameter included in the vulnerability index.
Resource stresses on water resources can be expressed as “scarcity” and “variation” of the water resources (UNEP 2009) a) Water scarcity parameter (RSs):
The availability of water resources is crucial for meeting demand, as it is determined by the total water resources of a region, which includes both groundwater and surface water The per capita water resource availability per year can be expressed in cubic meters per person, highlighting the importance of assessing these resources in relation to the population of an island.
Water Stress (RSs) on the island is measured by the annual per capita water resources in relation to a standard acceptable level, which is compared to the global average of 1,700 m³ per person per year.
RSs: water scarcity parameter R: per capita water resources availability per year (m 3 /person.year)
With R > 1700 m3 /person year, we can see that the region's water resources are relatively abundant, water sources is not a scarce and less vulnerable b) Water variation parameter (RSv):
The vulnerability of average annual rainfall across the island can be quantified using the coefficient of variation (Cv) A Cv value of less than 0.3 indicates low vulnerability, while a Cv of 0.3 or greater signifies a higher degree of vulnerability.
The coefficient of variation is defined by normal statistical terms, where pi is the precipitation of the i th year (mm):
4.4.2 Development Pressures (DP) a) Water exploitation parameter (DPs)
Hydrological processes are essential for maintaining the balance of natural freshwater resources on the island However, increased development has led to higher water demand and the over-exploitation of these resources, resulting in water imbalances that disrupt natural hydrological processes Consequently, the rate of water resource development, defined as the ratio of total water resources extracted for use, reflects the island's capacity for a sustainable and healthy renewable process.
DPs: Water exploitation parameter Rt: Total water resource
WRs: Total water supply (capacity) b) Safe drinking water inaccessibility parameter (DPd) luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
The assessment of improved drinking water parameters evaluates how effectively the island's society has adapted to the available freshwater resources to meet the basic livelihood needs of its people This parameter reflects the collective capacity of all stakeholders, including communities and government, to manage water resources, alongside the availability of technology and adaptation strategies A key indicator of water stress is the percentage of the population with or without access to improved water sources, which highlights the immediate demand for clean water This parameter is calculated by determining the difference between the total population lacking access to clean water and the overall population of the island.
DPd: Safe drinking water inaccessibility parameter;
Pd: Population without access to improved drinking water sources P: Total population
4.4.3 Ecological Insecurity (ES) a) Water pollution parameter (ESp)
Water exploitation leads to waste and environmental pollution, particularly affecting water resources The discharge of untreated sewage contributes to the degradation of natural ecosystems, making the total waste on an island a critical factor in assessing water resource vulnerability Water pollution is directly linked to the ratio of total untreated wastewater discharge [WW] to the island's total water resources [Rt] A ratio of 10 percent or more of the available water indicates a highly vulnerable situation.
WW = Total untreated wastewater discharge (m 3 ) Rt: Total water resources b) Ecosystem deterioration parameter
Urbanization and socio-economic development activities lead to significant vegetation loss, resulting in landscape changes and alterations to the natural hydrological cycle This disruption affects ecosystem functionality, alters water flow, and increases the vulnerability of freshwater resources Consequently, the ecological deterioration can be quantified by the ratio of the basin area devoid of vegetation cover to the total island area.
ESe: Ecosystem deterioration parameter Ad: Land without forest, wetland or native vegetation cover (km 2 ) A: Total island area (km 2 )
Current, Assessing the vulnerability of freshwater management challenges with three important issues, including:
(i) Efficient use of water resources;
(ii) The health status of people depends on access to improved sanitation;
(iii) The overall capacity to deal with the management of the water resources of the island in a uniform way
The management challenge is shown through three indicators; namely: luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si a) Improved sanitation inaccessibility parameter (MCs)
Access to sanitation is closely linked to the availability of freshwater resources, which are essential for both rural and urban communities to support their basic livelihoods Improving sanitary conditions is a key objective of the Millennium Development Goals Therefore, effective management systems must prioritize increasing water availability to ensure communities can meet their fundamental needs.
Improved sanitation inaccessibility serves as a key metric for assessing a management system's effectiveness in enhancing livelihoods Access to improved drinking water sources and monitoring indicators aligned with the Millennium Goals are crucial in this evaluation Specific parameters, such as the classification of toilets to minimize contact with humans, animals, and insects—including sewers, septic tanks, pour-flush toilets, flush toilets, and pit latrines—must be defined (WHO and UNICEF 2010) This metric is calculated based on the proportion of the population lacking access to improved sanitation relative to the total population.
MCs: Improved sanitation inaccessibility parameter Ps: Population without access to improved sanitation P: Total population b) Water Use Efficiency Parameter [MCe]:
Efficient water usage relies on the combination of effective water policies and technological advancements A comparison was made between the water resource management system on the island and the average water use efficiency of developed countries, measured in cost per cubic meter.
Efficient water use is determined by the ratio of GDP produced by an island to its total annual rainfall, reflecting the overall water resources available.
Water Use Efficiency is measured by the GDP generated from one cubic meter of water, compared to the average GDP per cubic meter in selected island developing countries These countries include Japan, Hong Kong, Ireland, Singapore, and the United Kingdom, all of which rank among the top 25 nations for per capita GDP according to the IMF (2011).
Water Use Efficiency (MCe) is a critical parameter that measures the GDP generated from each cubic meter of water utilized (WE) The average water use efficiency (WEm) of selected developed island countries highlights the effectiveness of water resource management Additionally, the capacity for conflict management (MCi) plays a significant role in ensuring sustainable water use practices.
The effectiveness of the water management system on the island is demonstrated through Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), which involves collaboration among all sectors and stakeholders, from the community to the government A successful management system is characterized by strong institutional structures, effective policy development, active stakeholder involvement, and financial stability, all supported by knowledge and human resource capacity The evaluation of IWRM's capabilities can be conducted using the matrix presented in Table 4.1, which encompasses both governance and management dimensions.
Vulnerability index (VI) can be calculated as follows: luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Data used
Data collection on water resources management and usage on Phu Quoc Island is essential, given its isolation and limited research Key information required includes: a) Water resources data such as rainfall, surface water, groundwater, and water quality; b) Development and usage data for both surface and groundwater, emphasizing long-term trends; c) Ecosystem data focusing on vegetation cover, which impacts water flow and quality; d) Management data, including both quantitative and qualitative information on efficient water use and relevant policies; e) General information about the study area's natural and socioeconomic context This comprehensive data collection is crucial for conducting a thorough vulnerability assessment and understanding the region's water resource dynamics.
- General Information: Location, geography and geologic / topography, land area, etc.;
- Climate, Land Use; Socioeconomic data - population, economic structure and size, GDP, etc
On Table 4.3 Is listed the data, theirs sources which have been used on this thesis
Table 4.3 Data used for research
No Data Type Date/ Measure Sources
3 Water supply (capacity) Total water supply 2010, 2012 NAWAPI,
5 Water pollution Total untreated wastewater discharge 2010, 2012 NAWAPI,
6 Area Total island area 2012 Statistical
Rate of households using hygienic toilet 2010, 2012
9 GDP GDP per capita 2012 Statistical
10 Water use Water use efficiency 2012 NAWAPI,
Data analysis luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si