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Impounding Reservoirs, Benefits and Risks: A Review of Environmental and Technical Aspects of Construction and Operation

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  • Maksymilian Połomski

    (Institute of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 24, 50-363 Wrocław, Poland
    State Water Holding Polish Waters—Regional Water Management Authority in Wrocław, Norwida 34, 50-950 Wrocław, Poland)

  • Mirosław Wiatkowski

    (Institute of Environmental Engineering, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, pl. Grunwaldzki 24, 50-363 Wrocław, Poland)

Abstract

The operation of multi-functional reservoirs, together with their benefits and risks, is a complex issue. The scientific and social discussion has been burgeoning recently, and all the more so as no planning and technological solutions for the realisation of storage reservoirs have yet been worked out that could represent a universal approach, assuming ecologically and socially sustainable operations, maximising economic returns and supporting the development of the region concerned. Although the creation of each reservoir facility involves different engineering and environmental considerations, this article attempts to isolate the key benefits of impounding reservoirs and to summarise the risks associated with their operation, considering flood protection, retention, environmental and social aspects and water quality. Based on a review of the scientific literature for each of these aspects, various sub-categories representing intensively developing sectors of research were distinguished, and the published results were used to formulate a register taking into account the spectrum of impact of a given factor and a proposal for remedial action. As a basic conclusion of this review, it can be pointed out that the current development of scientific research, technological progress in hydrotechnical engineering and information technology, as well as advanced data analysis capabilities, provide the basis for developing sustainable solutions to avoid or mitigate the negative impact of all the identified risks. In addition, remedial measures in the catchment area and the reservoir should be taken on board to counteract the negative effects of reservoirs. The results presented can be a valuable source of information for institutions responsible for the planning and implementation of investments in the construction of multi-functional reservoirs.

Suggested Citation

  • Maksymilian Połomski & Mirosław Wiatkowski, 2023. "Impounding Reservoirs, Benefits and Risks: A Review of Environmental and Technical Aspects of Construction and Operation," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(22), pages 1-23, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:22:p:16020-:d:1281752
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Nejc Bezak & Martina Kovačević & Gregor Johnen & Klaudija Lebar & Vesna Zupanc & Andrej Vidmar & Simon Rusjan, 2021. "Exploring Options for Flood Risk Management with Special Focus on Retention Reservoirs," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(18), pages 1-20, September.
    2. Xuan Zhang & Changling Fang & Yuan Wang & Xiaoyi Lou & Ying Su & Dongmei Huang, 2022. "Review of Effects of Dam Construction on the Ecosystems of River Estuary and Nearby Marine Areas," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(10), pages 1-16, May.
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