Water Resource Change on Livelihoods and Well-Being in a Historical, Changing Landscape

Keywords: water resources, ecosystems, climate and landscape, impacts, livelihoods, well-being
Session Type: Virtual Paper Abstract
Day: Friday
Session Start / End Time: 2/25/2022 03:40 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada)) - 2/25/2022 05:00 PM (Eastern Time (US & Canada))
Room: Virtual 53

Abstract

Changes to water resources continues to impact ecosystem and human well-being. Cambodia is a country that has a long history of water resource management, where water is tied to advancing state objectives and quality of life. The Greater Angkor Region of Cambodia is a historically significant and diverse landscape, where water from its main watershed originates in Phnom Kulen National Park, an ancient mountain, which has experienced extensive challenges with increased water demand, land-use change, and climate conditions. Drawing on a social-ecological framework, which describes the interconnections between humans and nature and applying an ‘everyday lens’, this study examines the experiences of residents as they negotiate their use and access of water in both the upstream and downstream areas of this landscape. Based on interviews with residents and key informants, the results of this study reveal that water shortages and concerns differed in use and severity for upstream and downstream residents. In upstream areas, water concerns primarily focused on domestic use of water and the ability to access water sources, while in the downstream areas, most water challenges were in relation to productive uses (irrigation, tourism). Specifically, different degrees of water challenges were noted throughout the landscape, focusing on noticeably lower water levels, increased competition for access to water sources, and the distribution of water. In highlighting everyday water experiences, this study offers important insights for water resource management and provides recommendations based on the needs of residents.