Dynamic evaluation of regional water resources carrying capacity based on set pair analysis and partial connection number

In order to describe the micro motion between the connection number components and seek a more applicable evaluation model, quantitatively evaluate and analyze regional water resources carrying capacity (WRCC). Firstly, an evaluation index system and grade standards of regional WRCC were constructed. Then, a method for determining the connection number was proposed, which considered the micro motion between the connection number components in system structure. Finally, built an evaluation model based on set pair analysis (SPA) and partial connection number (PCN) that used subtraction set pair potential (SPP) to identify vulnerability factors, and identification results were compared with total partial connection number (TPCN). The model was applied to Huaibei City, Anhui Province, China. The results showed that: the WRCC grade value was between 2 and 3 that was poor; the support and regulation subsystem grade value was between 2 and 3, and the pressure subsystem grade value was between 1 and 2. SPP identified that the support force and regulation force subsystem were the vulnerable subsystems. Eight indexes such as water resources per capita, rate of ecological water consumption and density of population were the main indicators causing the poor WRCC, which were in good agreement with the local measured data. In addition, the SPP and TPCN are compared to further verify rationality of the connection number determination method and reliability of the identification results. The model established in this paper has strong applicability and can also be used for the dynamic evaluation of other resources, environment and ecological carrying capacity. The results in this study can provide a scientific basis for water resources management and decision-making.