Project Description
Many countries with limited water resources but developing economies and increasing populations, have developed financial and non-financial tools for managing water demand to encourage a more efficient allocation of water, and to optimise the value of water used. To date, few of these tools have been taken up in the UK and Ireland, not least because the resource is more plentiful. One result of this is the generally high per capita water use, and low economic returns in some jurisdictions in the UK and Ireland. In some areas, there is no volumetric billing for domestic water use. However, as climate change increases the costs of capturing and managing the freshwater resources, even countries with a historically more abundant water resource need to consider the range of measures available to reduce unnecessary demand, and begin to signal the value of water and to encourage more efficient uses. This project will examine the experience of selected water-scarce countries in addressing water demand, and will identify and evaluate what tools could be applicable to the UK and Ireland. The project will include developing an understanding of the priorities and constraints of water regulators and utilities in in the UK and Ireland, and will suggest which approaches could be most appropriate here.
APPLICATION PROCEDURE
• Apply for Degree of Doctor of Philosophy in the School of Natural and Built Environment (subject: Geography)
• State name of the lead supervisor as ‘Name of Proposed Supervisor’ on application
• State ‘DfE Studentship’ as Intended Source of Funding
• To apply, select the ’Visit Website’ link below or visit https://dap.qub.ac.uk/portal/user/u_login.php
RESEARCH PROPOSAL: Applicants should upload a 500-word (maximum) discussion to the ’Research Proposal’ section of the Online Application Form) which gives details of:
Their understanding of the proposed research question(s) aim and objectives.
The context for the research in terms of relevant literature and policy.
A possible methodological approach.
Options for analysing the data gathered.
Funding Notes
The successful candidate will be funded through a DfE studentship at the 2020/21 rate, a stipend of £14,777 and Home/EU fees. The candidate must have been ordinarily resident in the UK for 3 years (with no restrictions). EU residents may be eligible for the studentship covering fees-only.
