Title: Causes, effects, and management of river salinization in Spain with special attention to wastewater treatment
The PhD student Álvaro Moyano Salcedo, from the Surface Hydrology, Ecology and Erosion group, will defend his thesis on 15th January at 11:00h in Aula de Graus – Edifici Durfort (Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona)
Directors: Miguel Cañedo-Argüelles and Humbert Salvadó
Thesis Committee: Eugènia Martí, Francesc de Paula and Juan David González
Abstract:
Freshwater salinization (FS) is a global challenge impacting aquatic ecosystems. This thesis compiles the GlobSalt database, which includes ~15M records on salinity parameters globally. It examines FS in Spanish rivers, focusing on temporal variability and key human-driven sources. It also explores the interactive effects of nutrient and salt pollution on aquatic ecosystems. Finally, it assesses how salinity affects wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) and their contributions to river salinity. The findings highlight FS drivers, impacts, and management strategies, providing a foundation for future research and solutions.
