Analysis of the DRASTIC method for vulnerability in aquifers: A systematic review

DRASTIC is a method used to assess the vulnerability of groundwater to contamination in areas with intensive aquifer pumping and limited environmental management. This study examined how the DRASTIC method has evolved, including its development, uses, and limitations. The study used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol and analysed data from the Scopus database. They identified 1,802 publications and selected 1,113 for analysis, examining changes across three time periods. The first period (1987-2000) focused on validating the method's origin; the second period (2001-2013) included adapting the method and comparing it with other methods, models, and indices; and the third period (2014-2025) involved applying DRASTIC using artificial intelligence and numerical models. DRASTIC has been adapted in different ways depending on the contaminants to be detected. Eight main research areas were identified: artificial intelligence models, method changes, environmental analysis, coastal and karst aquifers, aquifer monitoring, environmental vulnerability, geospatial tools, and aquifer protection. The widespread use of DRASTIC has made maps more accurate, helping to find vulnerable areas for better water management