Developing and Using Some Indices for Studying the Evolution of Surface Water Quality

Abstract:

In this paper, starting from the principles of sustainable development, and from the importance of preserving the quality of water for future generations, we propose some indices which can be used to study the evolution of surface water quality in a region. The indices are built using data offered by national institutions which are concerned with monitoring water quality, considering the classes established by the legislation in use or values of the most important factors which influence water quality, and the magnitude of the bodies of water analyzed. Using these indicators, a study of water quality evolution in the hydrological basin of the Danube in Romania (HBDR) is conducted. The results show that some of these indicators have decreasing values, which demonstrates a deterioration in the quality of the surface waters in this basin. These indices can be useful tools for studies regarding water quality evolution and they can be used by those who work in the environmental management area or sustainable development field or by policy makers who adopt or harmonize laws in this sector.

• Periodical: Advances in Science and Technology (Volume 178)
• Pages: 181-189
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.4028/p-RfmM9m
• Online since: June 2026
• Authors: Luminița Grecu*, Gabriela Demian, Mihai Demian
• Keywords: Ecological State/Potential, Indices, Integrated Evaluation, Surface Water, Sustainable Development, Water Quality

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