Legend: "+" increases the next variable; "-" decreases the next variable. R = reinforcing loop; B = balancing loop.

Organic matter

in sediments

Reducing aquifer

conditions

Arsenic mobilized

into groundwater

Risk awareness

(testing, education)

Mitigation coverage

(deep wells, filters, piped water)

Tube well

reliance

Arsenic in

well water

Human arsenic dose

(drinking + cooking)

Chronic disease

burden

Household income

and capacity

Ability to access and

maintain safe water

Groundwater

irrigation

Arsenic builds up

in soils

Arsenic in rice

and animal feed

Livestock exposure

Total arsenic dose

(water + food)

Livelihood stress

R1

Poverty → Exposure → Illness

B1

Awareness → Mitigation → Lower dose

R2

Irrigation → Food chain → Stress