Integrated Analyses of Canada's Water Resources: A System Dynamics Approach

Abstract

An integrated water resources management model for Canada, CanadaWater, has been developed using the system dynamics simulation approach. The CanadaWater model takes into consideration dynamic interactions between quantitative characteristics of the available water resources and water use that are determined by the socio-economic development level, population and physiographic features of Canada’s territory. It is a unique tool that integrates the water quantity and quality sectors with seven sectors that drive economic development: population; agricultural development; food production; capital investment; energy generation; use of non-renewable resources; and persistent pollution. The CanadaWater model is a system dynamics simulation model that provides for investigation of different scenarios. Model simulations are performed for 12 scenarios designed to investigate policy options in the area of fresh water availability, wastewater treatment, economic growth, population growth, energy generation and food production. The conclusions point to a very strong dependence of Canada’s future development and well being on maintaining acceptable quality of the water resources and controlling the level of water use in different sectors. © 2004, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.