Journals Proceedings

International Journal of Environmental Engineering

DRASTIC Model and GIS-Based Assessment of Groundwater Vulnerability to Contamination in Boracay Island, Philippines

Author(s) : ALADINO L. LECCIO, EDITHA L. MAGALLANES, EFREN L. LINAN, LEONARDO M. FLORECE, LUDOVICO OLMO, VICTOR B. ELLA

Abstract

The study was conducted to assess the vulnerability of groundwater resource to contamination with the application of engineering technologies such as the DRASTIC model in combination with Quantum Geographic Information System (QGIS) in Boracay Island, Aklan, Philippines. Specifically, the study aimed to determine the vulnerability of groundwater resource to contamination by computing its vulnerability index; develop a groundwater vulnerability map; and recommend policy interventions to sustain the ecotourism industry of the island. The result showed that indeed Boracay Island groundwater resources are vulnerable to contamination, hence, pressures due to tourism developments in the island could lead to the degradation of groundwater resources and coastal waters. Groundwater resources of Boracay Island that were found to be vulnerable to contamination were determined as follows: about 410.28 ha (40.87%) were moderately vulnerable; 562.37 ha (56.01%) were highly vulnerable; and 30.95 ha (3.08%) were considered very highly vulnerable areas in all of the three barangays of Boracay Island. The study exhibited the combined use of the DRASTIC model and Quantum GIS as an effective method for groundwater contamination vulnerability assessment. It also demonstrated the effectiveness of the model in developing vulnerability maps and the combined use of the model and QGIS in identifying vulnerable areas to contamination. This can aid in policy making, planning and management interventions to attain sustainable ecotourism industry in island ecosystem. The immediate legislation of local ordinance to construct sewerage system on identified critical areas is recommended to mitigate the deterioration of aquatic resources in Boracay Island in the future.

No fo Author(s) : 6
Page(s) : 78 - 81
Electronic ISSN : 2374 - 1724
Volume 1 : Issue 4
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