Meta-analysis of theoretical frameworks, methods and data for coupled human–water systems: decadal progress and future directions

Coevolution of coupled human–water systems (CHWS) is critical for long-term sustainable water management, linking to Panta Rhei. However, the study of CHWS suffers from complexity brought by diverse natural and social science disciplines. In this study, we investigated the general landscape of the theoretical frameworks, methods and data in CHWS case studies. Our meta-analysis, encompassing 205 cases, draws on eight proposed theoretical frameworks in four typologies, quantifying the prevalence and geographical distribution of methods and data. Results demonstrated the analytical strength of sociohydrology for CHWS, underscoring the need to integrate multidisciplinary theoretical frameworks. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methods and data would help overcome the limitations of each method when used in isolation, broadening the research scope of disciplines. This requires sociohydrology to enhance its ability to integrate diverse research approaches. The uneven global distribution of CHWS research teams highlights the necessity of increasing collaboration and resource sharing across borders.