Multi-Modelling of the Managed Aquifer Recharge Systems for Sustainable Groundwater Development in Beijing Plain, China

Abstract

This study explores the challenge of groundwater depletion in the Beijing Plain, a problem exacerbated by rapid socio-economic expansion and unsustainable groundwater abstraction. The core of this research is the development and application of multi-scale numerical groundwater flow and transport models to rigorously evaluate the measures implemented by the Beijing municipality. These measures include the strategic reduction of groundwater abstraction and the adoption of innovative water management practices such as Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) and Environmental Flow Release (EFR) operations. Through the development of various hydrogeological conceptual models and a number of multi-scale flow and transport models, the study has successfully simulated groundwater storage depletion in the past and assessed the long-term sustainability of groundwater resources, taking into account the impact of current measures and future climate changes. The findings highlight the crucial role of MAR operations in restoring depleted groundwater storage in the shallow aquifer and the essential need for reducing abstraction in the deep confined aquifers. This research not only supports the sustainable groundwater management strategy in Beijing but also provides a valuable framework for other urban areas worldwide facing similar challenges of groundwater depletion.