Summary:
The present PhD Dissertation examines the description, analysis and
interpretation of hydrogeological and hydrochemical conditions of discontinuous
media, represented by the ophiolite nappe in Central Euboea (Mantoudi), aiming
at the conception, the development and the subsequent validation of an
integrated methodology for the description of fissured rocks, subject to
intrinsic vulnerability.
The vulnerability is not being considered as a characteristic of a particular
element at risk, but as a peculiarity of a complex territorial system, in which
the different elements are reciprocally linked in a functional way. The concept
of groundwater vulnerability is based on the theory that the natural
environment can offer some degree of protection to aquifers against
contaminants entering the subsurface environment by natural or human causes.
Thus, the need of studying groundwater vulnerability becomes continuously more
essential.
In order to estimate and to define both the quality and quantity the degree of
protection, a group of parameters are being considered. The estimation and
definition of those parameters are based on the geoenvironmental conditions of
an area that is vulnerable to contamination, in order to distinguish the
geological, geomorphologic and hydrogeological criteria that affect the
environmental impact of hard rock aquifers. These criteria are being calibrated
in GIS, with the use of Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), so as to be able to
support a correct territorial planning and a suitable management of the water
resources protecting its quality which is essential to increase efficient use
of existing water supplies. Furthermore, a sensitivity analysis has been
performed to evaluate the influence of single parameters on aquifer
vulnerability assessment.
Keywords:
Vulnerability mapping, Hydrogeology, Fissured Rocks, SCALDI, Mantoudi - Euboea Island
