作者：Li, J., Han, Z., Yu, J. & Tian, Y.

Sulfate contamination in freshwater systems is a growing environmental concern due to its significant impact on water quality, aquatic ecosystems, and human health. This study investigates the dynamics of water flow and sulfate transport in the Nansi Lake Basin (NLB) in northern China, focusing on the impacts of both natural and anthropogenic disturbances, using an integrated ecohydrological model. The study quantified the spatial variability of three primary sources of sulfate in the NLB: point source effluents, groundwater discharge, and nonpoint source pollution. Groundwater discharge was found to be the dominant source of sulfate in the western part of the basin. Point source effluents were more prominent in the eastern part of the basin. This study explores climate projection on sulfate flux into Nansi Lake. Under the SSP1-2.6 climate scenario, the study projected an increase in annual precipitation and temperature, leading to a 28.2 % increase in lake inflow and an 19.4 % increase in sulfate flux into Nansi Lake. The study highlighted the significant impact of groundwater withdrawal policies on sulfate transport. Complete cessation of groundwater withdrawal led to a 10.1 % increase in sulfate flux due to higher groundwater discharge into rivers. Conversely, increased groundwater extraction resulted in a 15.2 % reduction in sulfate flux, primarily due to decreased groundwater discharge. These findings underscore the trade-offs between groundwater conservation and surface water quality management. The findings provide valuable insights into the hydrological processes, sulfate sources, and the impacts of climate change and human activities on sulfate transport in the basin. The study emphasizes the need for integrated water resource management strategies that consider both quantity and quality aspects.

（来源：Water Research 2025   DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2025.123805）