An improved framework for the modelling and optimisation of greenhouse gas emissions associated with water distribution systems

Abstract

Human-induced climate change and its associated effects have become one of the most significant problems faced by human-kind. The importance of climate change mitigation has been widely recognised by the scientific, commercial and political sectors. Greenhouse gas (GHG) releases have been identified as a major cause of human-induced climate change. Water distribution systems (WDSs), whilst providing an essential service to modern cities, significantly contribute to the release of GHG emissions. While recent literature has considered the reduction of GHG emissions associated with WDSs, there has been limited consideration of the impact of operational strategies, the interaction between water supply infrastructure and energy generating infrastructure and the effect of policy drivers on the optimal trade-offs between cost and GHG. In order to maximise GHG emission reductions from the design and operation of a WDS, an integrated framework is required. Such a framework is presented in this paper. In order to identify best design options, the framework can be used in conjunction with optimisation approaches. By considering the interconnections between the various components in the framework, the effect of each component on the whole system can be investigated. This enables the most effective strategies for the reduction of GHG emissions associated with WDSs to be developed.