Special session: Bridging the gap between science and society: towards a sustainable water resources management in Cap Bon region, NE Tunisia
Organizers: Dr. Samia Khadhar (CERTE), Dr. Anis Chekirbane (INAT), Eng. Ali Ben Ammar (CRDA of Nabeul)
Introduction
Water scarcity is one of the most pressing issues in Tunisia, particularly in the Cap Bon region in Northeastern Tunisia, where agricultural practices heavily depend on groundwater resources. This special session at the AGIC Conference seeks to explore the critical intersection between scientific research, policy development, and community engagement for sustainable water resource management in this region. It aims to provide a platform for experts, policymakers, farmers, and other stakeholders to collaborate on innovative solutions.
Objectives
The main objective of this special session is to foster dialogue between scientific communities, policymakers, and local stakeholders to bridge the gap between science and society for sustainable water resources management in the Cap Bon region. By sharing lessons from past and present research, the session aims to highlight successful projects and technologies such as Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR), smart irrigation systems, and Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) that can address water challenges. It also seeks to strengthen partnerships between local and international institutions, promote the adoption of advanced technologies, and encourage participatory approaches involving farmers and communities to ensure the long-term sustainability of water and agricultural systems in the region.
Session Themes
- Exploration, characterization, and remediation of conventional water resources: this theme focuses on scientific approaches to explore, assess, and address the quality and quantity of conventional water resources, including surface and groundwater. It will explore the methods for characterizing water bodies, understanding the impacts of overexploitation, and applying remediation techniques to restore water quality and availability.
- Valorization of non-conventional water resources: the increasing water scarcity in the Cap Bon region requires the efficient use of non-conventional water sources such as treated wastewater. This theme will explore innovative ways to control and integrate these alternative resources into the regional water management system, promoting sustainable practices for agriculture and industry.
- Decision support tools and Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM): Decision-making in water management must be supported by robust, data-driven tools. This theme covers the development and application of Decision Support Systems (DSS) and other technologies that assist in the planning and implementation of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM). These tools are essential for optimizing water allocation, enhancing resource monitoring, and balancing competing demands across sectors.
- Water governance: effective governance is key to managing water resources sustainably. This theme will examine the institutional, legal, and policy frameworks that govern water use in the Cap Bon region. It will emphasize the importance of multi-level governance, stakeholder engagement, and transparent decision-making processes to ensure equitable and sustainable water distribution, while addressing the challenges posed by climate change and population growth.