Data assessment for water demand and supply balance on the island of Santa Cruz (Galápagos Islands)

A high per capita water demand of approximately 370 liters per day (lpcpd) has been identified on Santa Cruz Island, the most populated of the Galápagos Islands, despite its water-scarce environment. This finding stems from a data assessment study that analyzed total water supply and demand, highlighting significant pressure on local resources due to rapid population growth and tourism expansion. The research compared two main urban settlements and evaluated constraints faced by the Municipal Department of Potable Water and Sanitation. By quantifying water sources and their contributions, the study provides critical insights for developing a comprehensive water balance, essential for ensuring reliable and continuous safe drinking water supply in the region.

Reyes, M. F., Trifunović, N., Sharma, S., & Kennedy, M. (2016). Data assessment for water demand and supply balance on the island of Santa Cruz (Galápagos Islands). Desalination and Water Treatment, 57(45), 21335–21349. https://doi.org/10.1080/19443994.2015.1119756