Articles

Blue Gold: Biodiversity and Technological Innovation in Water Management


Abstract


Water is a strategic resource increasingly threatened by climate change, overexploitation, and demographic pressure. Acquedotto Pugliese, one of Europe’s largest water and sanitation utilities, manages more than 33,000 km of pipes and serves over four million people in Southern Italy. AQP’s operations are essential for maintaining a reliable water supply and for protecting ecosystems and biodiversity. This paper examines a range of innovative strategies, including advanced wastewater treatment, water reuse, desalination projects, and digital innovations in leak detection and network monitoring. Case studies, such as the Melendugno constructed wetland system, demonstrate that nature-based solutions may enhance biodiversity and support sustainable water management. The findings indicate that technological innovation and environmental restoration can jointly safeguard water resources for future generations.

Keywords


Water management, biodiversity, constructed wetland, desalination, Smart Water Management

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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2423/i22394303v15Sp61

References


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