Work

Reducing water poverty through institutional innovation: evidence from China's River Chief System

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: ABSTRACT China has implemented the most comprehensive River Chief System (RCS) globally to enhance water quality, yet its impact on water poverty and economics remains insufficiently understood. This study investigated the effect of the RCS on water poverty in China via a difference-in-differences model based on data from 31 provinces spanning the period from 2007 to 2021. The results revealed that the RCS led to a 1.69% reduction in water poverty, with technological innovation and strengthened environmental regulation identified as key mechanisms. Heterogeneity analysis showed that the RCS had a significantly stronger effect on water poverty in provinces that adopted it before 2016 and in regions with inadequate water infrastructure, with results significant at the 1% level. The cost–benefit analysis further demonstrated that the RCS had generated an economic benefit of 562.9 billion yuan, approximately equivalent to USD 84.77 billion. This paper underscores the significance of RCS policies and offers insights for refining policy optimization aimed at enhancing the sustainable management of water resources.

Source: Water Policy

DOI: 10.2166/wp.2025.043

Authors: Lan Mu, Ying Li, Zongjia Tan, Chunxia Luo, Yaochuang Yu

Institutions: Shaanxi Normal University, Sun Yat-sen University, University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, Baoji University of Arts and Sciences

Language: English

Topic: Water Resources and Sustainability

Subfield: Water Science and Technology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Clean water and sanitation, No poverty, Reduced inequalities, Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4413827336

FWCI: 0.255

Cites: 41

Cited by: 1

Related to: 10