A qualitative model of Riacho Fundo (DF, Brazil) water basin sustainability

This paper presents a model aiming at supporting stakeholders to improve their understanding of the effects of land use changes using the Brazilian Riacho Fundo water basin as a case study. The paper makes two contributions: it presents a model about sustainability in a small tropical water basin, and discusses design decisions required for depicting ecological systems from different perspectives (urban, semi-urban and rural) and levels of complexity by using modelling assumptions. Simulations explore sustainability issues related to (a) the effects of vegetation cover on soil and water conditions and agricultural production; (b) the dynamics of erosion and water infiltration in the soil; and (c) the effects of urban drainage systems. The model was positively evaluated by an academic expert and technicians of a water treatment company, secondary school science teachers, and stakeholders involved in a Water Basin Committee.