Meiji University

Whereabouts of Water
The proposal seeks to establish a sustainable water supply system in response to Seoul's escalating impacts of climate change. Over the past century, the average annual temperature has surged by roughly 1.7 degrees Celsius, resulting in reduced rainy days but heightened instances of intense rainfall. This erratic weather pattern has induced fluctuations in water levels due to increased sunlight, drought, and flash floods from heavy downpours. The Han River, a vital water source for the region, is experiencing instability due to these climate shifts, with further deterioration anticipated. The consequences of these changes on the river's ecosystem are concerning; if the river's supply becomes disrupted, over 10 million people could grapple with water scarcity. Adapting water management to the swiftly evolving climate and river dynamics is imperative to guarantee a consistent water supply.
The proposal advocates for an innovative strategy in water resource management. It suggests developing water purification facilities capable of handling unpredictable and unstable changes in river water levels. Currently, Korea employs a multi-step water management system involving dams, reservoirs, intake and purification plants, distribution reservoirs, and water supply points.
The proposal introduces the concept of floating islands equipped with water purification capacities along the river. These islands would positively impact people, water quality, and green spaces. Citizens would gain access to a reliable water supply, while the river's water quality would gradually ameliorate. Simultaneously, these islands could foster greenery and vegetation growth. This holistic approach would channel water from the Han River to benefit urban dwellers, nature, and the overall cityscape. This visionary approach aspires to transform Seoul into a city that revolves even more around the Han River in the next century. This proposal envisions a resilient and thriving urban future by establishing a sustainable water supply system and mitigating the repercussions of climate change on water resources.