Suriname is already experiencing the impacts of climate variability and change, manifesting in increased average atmospheric temperatures, diminished annual rainfall, and the potential escalation in the intensity of tropical storms. The country relies heavily on groundwater resources for its drinking water supply, alongside surface water and direct rainfall. However, with the burgeoning economy, particularly in the tourism and agriculture sectors, water demand is projected to double over the next decade.
The 2011 Suriname Water Supply Master Plan has flagged clear indications of saline intrusion in the northern stations of the Greater Paramaribo area, specifically in A Sand and Coesewijne. It was found that the available groundwater yield in this area is currently estimated at 12,500m3/h for the next 15 years. However, beyond this timeframe, the yield is anticipated to significantly decrease due to salinity increase resulting from extensive exploitation of the A-Sand and Coesewijne aquifers, which are confined and not replenished with fresh water. This trend indicates a long-term risk of salinity intrusion constraining water yield in various fields.
CTCN Support
The primary objective of this Technical Assistance (TA) is to pinpoint areas most vulnerable to droughts and subsequent water variability and shortages through drought risk assessment and mapping. Subsequently, this data will be utilized to manage aquifer recharge (MAR) strategically, aiming to bolster water supply during dry spells and drought conditions by intentionally replenishing aquifers in regions facing the highest drought risk. This technical assistance aims to:
- Assess drought risk and water resources in Suriname;
- Issue risk maps through Geographical Information Systems (GIS) software to identify the areas most at risk of droughts;
- Mapping aquifers suitable for recharge;
- Design a fully integrated system that will enable Suriname to recharge its aquifer in times of drought in a sustainable, clean, and safe manner;
- Train national officers in the use of the drought prevention model, and the designed system to manage the water resources in the aquifer in times of drought;
Expected Impact
The expected outcome of this technical assistance is as follows:
- Map Stakeholders and establish a stakeholder working group;
- Assess drought risk in Suriname and generate GIS risk maps;
- Design a fully integrated system that will enable Suriname to recharge its aquifer in times of drought in a sustainable, clean, and safe manner;
- Benchmarking of technologies for groundwater recharge, identification of the suitable technologies in the context of Suriname, including the prioritization and selection of the suitable technology(ies);
Seeking Experts
The UN Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) invites its Network members to assist Suriname. Interested qualified firms are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) to enhance the resilience of Suriname´s water supply system by modeling drought risks and developing a roadmap of prioritized alternatives for aquifer recharge.
Please refer to the processes and documentation available at the UN Global Market Place (UNGM) and here.
Deadline for submission: 25 February 2024
If you are not a CTCN network member yet, you may apply here.
