Water Stress

Water stress refers to the growing imbalance between the demand for and availability of freshwater, exacerbated by factors such as population growth, economic development, climate change, and poor water management. It encompasses not only scarcity but also water quality and accessibility. Key characteristics include an imbalance of supply and demand, degraded water quality due to pollution, seasonal and geographic disparities, and social and economic inequities, particularly affecting vulnerable populations. Global water demand is projected to increase by 20–25% by 2050, with regions like the Middle East and North Africa facing extreme water stress. Primary drivers include climate change, population growth, urbanization, increased water demand, and pollution. Impacts are wide-ranging, from potential water conflicts and food insecurity to industrial disruptions, infrastructure costs, and environmental degradation.