A system dynamics model for supporting decision-makers in irrigation water management. (1st October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Pluchinotta, Irene; Pagano, Alessandro; Giordano, Raffaele; Tsoukiàs, Alexis
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental management. Volume 223(2018)
• Page Start: 815
• Page End: 824
• Publication Date: 2018-10-01
• Subjects: Water management -- Participatory modelling -- Decision analysis -- System dynamics -- Interactions space -- Sustainability; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; 363.705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2018.06.083
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4797

Abstract

Abstract: Water management is a controversial environmental policy issue, due to the heterogeneity of interests associated with a shared resource and the increasing level of conflict among water uses and users. Nowadays, there is a cumulative interest in enhancing multi-stakeholder decision-making processes, overtaking binding mercantile business, in water management domain. This requires the development of dynamic decision-aiding tools able to integrate the different problem frames held by the decision makers, to clarify the differences, to support the creation of collaborative decision-making processes and to provide shared platforms of interactions. In literature, these issues are faced by concepts such as Ostrom's action arena and Ostanello-Tsoukiàs' interaction space (IS). The analysis of the interactions structure and of the different problem framing involved are fundamental premises for a successful debate for the management of a common-pool resource. Specifically, the present paper suggests a dynamic evolution of the IS, highlighting its criticalities. It develops an alternative perspective on the problem, using a System Dynamics Model (SDM), exploring how different actions can influence the decision-making processes of various stakeholders involved in the IS. The SDM has been implemented in a multi-stakeholders decision-making situation in order to support water management and groundwater protection in the agricultural systems in the Capitanata area (Apulia region, Southern Italy). Highlights: The management of limited and shared water resources is a complex challenge. Increasing interest in supporting decision-making process with multiple stakeholders. The Interaction Space can form the basis for further collective decision-making. System Dynamics Model supports environmental collective decision-making processes.