Governance of Water Resources in Sicilian Natural Parks: A Paradigm of Resilience and Adaptation in the Anthropocene

In the Anthropocene, an era defined by significant human-induced impacts on Earth's ecological systems, effective water governance becomes critical. This research explores adaptive water governance frameworks within the Nebrodi and Madonie natural parks, located on Sicily, a centrally positioned Italian island in the Mediterranean. These parks are instrumental in confronting the dual threats of climate change and desertification. Employing the MEDALUS methodology, the study evaluates how these parks manage water resources to prevent ecological degradation and enhance socio-economic stability for nearby communities.

The analysis centers on participatory governance models that weave local community insights and traditional ecological knowledge into comprehensive water management practices. These models actively involve community stakeholders in the decision-making process, thereby improving the adoption and effectiveness of conservation strategies and strengthening communal connections to resource management. This approach illustrates how strategic water governance can simultaneously bolster cultural identity and enhance community resilience, which are essential for achieving sustainable development goals in regions susceptible to environmental challenges.

Moreover, the paper discusses the broader policy implications of these governance frameworks, providing actionable recommendations aimed at bolstering water security within Mediterranean ecosystems increasingly under pressure from climatic shifts. It articulates both the successes and the adaptive challenges faced by these parks, offering a detailed perspective on their roles as stewards of ecological integrity and cultural heritage.

Presenting case studies from these Sicilian parks, the research contributes important perspectives to the global discourse on sustainable water governance. It underscores the importance of adaptive management strategies in maintaining the resilience of water systems in the Anthropocene and advocates for governance frameworks that are ecologically sound and socio-culturally attuned. These strategies are crucial for facilitating sustainable interactions between human societies and the natural ecosystems they inhabit, ultimately supporting the broader objectives of global environmental sustainability.