Present and future water security under socioeconomic and climate changes in the Vilcanota-Urubamba basin

Abstract

This research assesses present (2009-2016) and future (until 2100) levels of water security taking into consideration socioeconomic and climate change scenarios using the WEAP (Water Evaluation and Planning) tool for Semidistributed hydrological modeling. The study area covers the VilcanotaUrubamba basin in the southern Peruvian Andes and presents a complex water demand context as a glacier-fed system. This study also further explores the importance of incorporating science and policy within a broader study of water security. As a result, it is expected to deliver high spatial resolution water demand maps and adaptation strategies for stakeholders. This research is part of the RAHU project as a new multidisciplinary collaboration between UK and Peruvian scientists.