Analysis and Evaluation of Water Resources Status in Dongying Based on Grey Water Footprint Theory

As the central city of the Yellow River Delta, Dongying faces challenges of water scarcity and water pollution. Based on the grey water footprint theory, the paper conducted grey water footprint accounting, factor analysis, and evaluation in Dongying from 2011 to 2023, aiming to clarify the water resources situation. Results indicated that the total grey water footprint in Dongying have decreased from 1.19 billion m3 in 2011 to 235 million m3 in 2023, a reduction of 80.21%. The agricultural, industrial, and domestic grey water footprints decreased by 94 million m3, 88 million m3, and 769 million m3, respectively, with the reduction rates reaching 54.19%, 69.98%, and 86.77%, respectively. The domestic grey water footprint has a significant impact on the dynamics of the total regional grey water footprint. The technical factor, as a negative driving factor, significantly affect the total grey water footprint in Dongying. Economic and population factors, as positive driving factors, have little impact. The water pollution level has been below 100% in recent years, with the grey water footprint sustainability remaining well. The grey water footprint intensity has decreased by 58.00 m3/10,000 CNY, a reduction of 90.60%, indicating significant improvements in water resource utilization efficiency and economic benefits. The paper provides a basis for water resource protection and water environment improvement in the Yellow River Delta region.