Key technologies and policies to adjust water resource-carrying capacity

A major problem of water resource security in China is overloading, therefore water resource-carrying capacity (WRCC) has become a key factor in restricting economic and social development. Against this background, WRCC regulation measures in the regions of Beijing, Ordos and Shiyang River Basin are summarized based on case studies and field surveys. Key technologies and polices to adjust WRCC are put forward, taken into account of “support-reinforcement” and “unloading”. “Support-reinforcement” measures include unconventional water resources utilization, optimal allocation of water resources, and water pollution control. “Unloading” measures include water demand management, water-saving technologies, and water price policy. These technologies and policies not only provide good foundation for WRCC regulations, but also help to balance water resources utilization with social-economic development.