| dc.description.abstract | Land subsidence, mostly caused by groundwater extraction, poses threats to vulnerable deltas. The Vietnamese Mekong Delta is an example of such a delta that faces problems due to groundwater over extraction. However, tackling the problem of groundwater over extraction is not an easy task, since people rely heavily on this fresh water source, of which domestic water use is an important aspect.
This research proposes a decentralised domestic water provision, based on the use of alternative water sources rainwater, stormwater and wastewater, as a solution to diminish groundwater use while keeping domestic water users secure. The feasibility of this proposed solution within the Vietnamese Mekong Delta is researched by defining the motivation and abilities of actors within this area, derived from the social, governmental, economic and technical- geographical conditions that need to be present for the implementation of a decentralised domestic water provision.
An extensive literature study, in-depth interviews in the Netherlands and Vietnam and surveys among households in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta provided the data to assess the presence of these conditions.
It was found that currently, the implementation of a decentralised domestic water provision in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta is not feasible. Important stakeholders lack the motivation to implement this strategy and are not fully capable with regard to governmental, economic and technical aspects. Especially with regard to economic abilities there seem to be problems. Besides, a lack in coordination between governmental departments and involvement from stakeholders pose problems for the implementation of a decentralised domestic water provision. Furthermore, some geographical conditions hamper the uptake of this solution.
Therefore, this research recommends to enhance the knowledge on groundwater extraction in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta, to stimulate the motivation among actors and design solutions that help the uptake of a decentralised domestic water provision. Furthermore, finances and coordination between governmental departments should be better aligned to enhance the success of development plans in the future. Researchers should keep researching the Vietnamese Mekong Delta to map groundwater problems and assist in the formulation of adaptation plans to water pollution and climate change in order to ensure a sustainable development of the Vietnamese Mekong Delta. | |
