Research on optimization of total water consumption and efficiency indicators in Yunnan Province

Since the implementation of the strictest water resources management system in Yunnan Province in 2012, significant results have been achieved in total water consumption control from a provincial perspective. However, with rapid economic and social development, the contradiction between water consumption quotas and regional development needs has become prominent in some cities. Against the backdrop of the new development stage, and under the premise of adhering to rigid water resource constraints and optimizing the spatial allocation of water resources, this study systematically conducted the following work: First, based on the territorial spatial planning and the layout of key water network projects in Yunnan Province, water demand across all sectors was projected for 2030.Second, using water resource fourth-level zones combined with cities as units, a supply-demand balance analysis was performed using ArcGIS and Mike Basin models. Finally, taking into account existing water allocation outcomes in river basins such as the Yangtze River and Pearl River, an optimization scheme for total water consumption and efficiency targets was proposed for the Yunnan province and each city. The research results indicate that the total water consumption of the province in 2030 should be strictly limited to no more than 22. 682 billion m3. By reducing quotas of the central region and increasing quotas for cities along the southwestern and northeastern borders of Yunnan Province, a balance between regional coordination and rigid constraints can be achieved. Simultaneously, a dynamic adjustment mechanism has been established, reserving 0.3 billion m3 of surface water and 0.03 billion m3 of groundwater annually as flexible capacity. The research findings provide scientific support for the construction of a modern plateau multi-dimensional water network and high-quality development in Yunnan, as well as practical reference for dual-control management of water resources in other southern regions under similar conditions.