Country – France
Department of Corrèze
Characterization of climate change and water resources: Climate change and water resource management
Faced with the growing challenge of climate change, it is crucial to anticipate its impact on water resources and the uses that depend on them. This prospective study aims to characterize climatic and hydrological evolutions, while assessing their consequences on the integrated management of water resources. The aim is to identify existing and future vulnerabilities in order to support local authorities and economic players in implementing appropriate strategies.
This project is structured around three main phases, mobilizing historical data and climate projections to develop a global and territorialized vision of climate impacts. It is part of our water resources data services, recognized for their relevance in analyzing and managing the risks associated with climate change.
Understanding climate and hydrological issues
Water is an essential resource for many sectors, including agriculture, industry, drinking water supply and ecosystem management. However, climate change is profoundly altering water regimes, leading to intensified droughts, floods and imbalances in resource availability.
The need for this study is twofold:
- Evaluate past and future climate impacts on a sub-catchment scale to provide a detailed analysis tailored to each territory.
- Develop tools and scenarios to strengthen the resilience of local players in the face of climate challenges.
Phase 1: Retrospective and prospective analysis
The first step in the study is to analyze past climatic and hydrological data to understand changing trends. This retrospective analysis is based on historical data series, enabling us to identify variations in precipitation, river flow and temperature.
Next, climate projections are developed to assess the evolution of water resources over different time horizons. These projections incorporate several socio-economic scenarios, reflecting various trajectories in terms of greenhouse gas emissions.
Phase 2: Assessment and hydroclimatic scenarios
The second phase focuses on developing hydrological and climatic balances specific to each sub-catchment. This stage includes :
- Identification of areas vulnerable to climatic hazards such as drought or flooding.
- Modeling hydroclimatic scenarios to anticipate variations in water resources and their impact on existing uses (agriculture, industry, drinking water).
These scenarios provide a solid basis for defining adaptation and climate risk management priorities.
Phase 3: Creation of a departmental database
Finally, the third phase aims to create a departmental database of climatic and hydrological projections. This database, designed with a fine, territorial resolution, will be an invaluable tool for local authorities and water managers.
It not only provides access to detailed information, but also compares historical and future trends for each territory, facilitating informed decision-making.
Results and practical applications
The results of this study provide strategic information for addressing water resource management issues:
- Water infrastructure planning: Identify priority investments to improve resilience to climatic hazards.
- Adapting water uses: Anticipate future water needs and adjust agricultural, industrial and domestic practices accordingly.
- Protecting aquatic ecosystems: Preserving natural habitats sensitive to hydrological variations.
These data can also be integrated into public policies to guide land-use strategies and ensure sustainable resource management.
An integrated vision for a resilient future
This prospective study is an essential step towards anticipating the impacts of climate change on water resources and associated uses. Based on robust methodologies and reliable projections, it offers a global and precise vision of the challenges ahead, highlighting potential risks and opportunities for adaptation. By analyzing various climate scenarios and their effects on hydrological cycles, we can provide actionable insights tailored to specific regional needs.
Thanks to our expertise in water management, we support local authorities and businesses in their transition to integrated, sustainable management models. This involves a comprehensive approach that addresses both short-term resilience and long-term sustainability. Together, we are helping to build resilient solutions to the challenges of climate change, ensuring the sustainability of water resources for future generations. Through collaboration, innovation, and data-driven decision-making, we are laying the groundwork for more effective resource management and climate adaptation strategies that will protect both communities and ecosystems in the face of a changing climate.