Forecast of development of regional water supply and sanitation systems considering environmental, economic, and social aspects as exemplified by Saint Petersburg

Resumen

The study examines the features of the theoretical and methodological basis of water resources management, defines the term, as well as the principles of resource-saving in urban water supply and sanitation systems. The object of the study is the water resources management of St. Petersburg, and, in particular, the performance of the resource-supplying water services company SUE "Vodokanal of St. Petersburg", whose operation is considered in detail in the context of the implementation of elements of sustainable development into its practice through environmental management systems. Besides, mission, vision, values, problematic aspects, initiatives, and challenges to further improvement from environmental, economic, and social positions are identified. Based on the conducted analysis and the company's directives, a forecast of the water resources use in St. Petersburg up to 2030 was made in general terms and the context of the city's water supply stations, taking into account the modernization of production and technical systems. Tools for regulating the environmental activities of water resources management enterprises were proposed, and correction coefficients were introduced for calculating fees by categories of polluting components. These measures will reduce the overall ecological footprint on water bodies in the region.