Socio-Hydrogeology - Bridging the Gaps Between Quantitative and Qualitative Approaches in Hydrogeological Mapping
I'm honored to share my thoughts (and those of my co-authors) at ISEST 2024, hosted by the Faculty of Earth Sciences and Technology at Institut Teknologi Bandung. Let me dive right in…
Bapak dan Ibu, and esteemed colleagues,
Today, I'd like to address a critical yet often overlooked aspect of hydrogeological research: the integration of social dimensions into our scientific approach. As we grapple with mounting challenges in water resource management, it's becoming increasingly evident that our traditional methods—relying solely on quantitative approaches as engineers—are no longer adequate.
The Challenge
For too long, as "ordinary engineers," we've relied solely on quantitative data and scientific models, often neglecting the valuable insights of local communities—insights that can only be captured through qualitative approaches. This oversight has led to incomplete understandings of groundwater systems and, in some cases, ineffective management strategies.
The Solution: Socio-Hydrogeology
I believe “socio-hydrogeology” — an emerging interdisciplinary field that bridges the gap between scientific knowledge and societal needs. By incorporating local knowledge, risk perceptions, and community priorities into our research, we can develop more comprehensive and effective groundwater management strategies.
Key Benefits
Enhanced understanding of seasonal variations and historical water usage patterns
Improved risk assessment by considering both scientific data and community perceptions
Better alignment of management strategies with local priorities and needs
Increased trust and cooperation between scientists and communities
Real-World Applications
In Southeast Asian regions, where rapid urbanization and climate change strain water resources, socio-hydrogeology can play a crucial role. By blending technical expertise with local knowledge, we can craft more sustainable and equitable water management practices.
The Path Forward
As we forge ahead, it's crucial that we wholeheartedly embrace this interdisciplinary approach. We must actively foster collaboration between natural and social scientists, meaningfully engage with local communities, and seamlessly integrate qualitative methods into our research paradigm.
Conclusion
By embracing a socio-hydrogeological framework, we can bolster the resilience and sustainability of groundwater systems as we face mounting global challenges. Let's bridge the gap between science and society, ensuring our research truly addresses the needs of the communities we serve.
Thank you all for attending this session. I'd like to express my gratitude to the moderator and the committee for dedicating their time and effort to make this event possible.
You could read the full paper here on my blog.