Evaluating the Impact of PROTs on Water Security: A Study of Basins in Chile

Climate change has resulted in declining water availability and increased water risk in various regions of Chile, a phenomenon also observed in other countries. A potential approach to address this situation is territorial planning, which could mitigate water vulnerability by managing water demand and protecting ecosystems that provide essential services such as drinking water supply and watershed regulation. The present study examines the role of Regional Land Use Plans (PROTs) in modifying water vulnerability levels through spatial management strategies. Four catchments are analyzed considering the current land use and zoning proposed by the PROTs. The results indicate that in three catchments the vulnerability indicator exhibits an increase under the proposed zoning, while in one catchment there is a slight decrease. The findings suggest a discrepancy between the development objectives articulated in the plans and the proposed land use patterns. Despite incorporating guidelines for water resource management within the PROTs, implementing these guidelines does not necessarily reduce vulnerability. This study posits the necessity of transitioning towards spatial planning methodologies that systematically incorporate hydrological criteria.