6th Water Research Horizon Conference
Water interfaces
Interfaces play a crucial role in the water cycle, especially concerning the interactions between different compartments and ecosystems such as the hydrosphere and biosphere. The terrestrial branch of the hydrosphere is closely linked to the biosphere, with vegetation influencing soil, atmosphere, and aquatic bodies through processes like water uptake and energy flux optimization. The biosphere's emission and capture of gases and particulates indirectly affect the water cycle by altering greenhouse gas concentrations and cloud formation, impacting evapotranspiration and precipitation. Eco-hydrology, exploring the interactions between the hydrological cycle and ecological systems, is rapidly advancing, considering both natural and human-induced influences on water systems. Anthropogenic impacts, driven by population growth, energy, food demand, and economic activities, pose challenges to water systems' sustainability and water quality, especially in the context of food security and changing consumption patterns. Effective strategies are needed to ensure efficient water use and management, considering the growing demands and potential impacts of climate change on water resources.