Geoethical implications of water pollution by road de‐icing: lessons and way forward in a mountain protected area (Serra da Estrela, Central Portugal)

Mountains are universally regarded as key sources of high-quality water resources, fundamental for the local populations as well as for communities living downstream. In recent years, global awareness has been growing among citizens, as well as public and private institutions concerning the need to protect mountain water resources. Many mountain catchments are usually situated in regions of low population density, which are the object of special nature protection status. Water pollution in these regions is often related to road de-icing operations. The objective of this research is to recognise and characterise the environmental implications of water pollution due to road de‐icing in a mountain-protected area (Serra da Estrela, Central Portugal) by means of a geoethical perspective encompassing hydrological and ecological processes along with socioeconomic conditions. A geoethically supported decision-making on road de-icing in Serra da Estrela should bear in mind the local hydrosocial cycle, that is to say, the decision-making should be aware of the complex and dialectic interactions between water flow and quality and the socioeconomic dynamics. Costs and benefits of alternative road de-icing techniques should also be assessed, including the impacts on ecological values. This approach encompasses the ability of the territory to produce fundamental ecosystem services, including hydrological services.