Amir Naghibi

Water scarcity is a global problem and refers to a situation where the demand for water exceeds the available quantity over a given period or if sufficient water is available, the quality of the water is poor and its use is limited. The issue of water scarcity is very complex and is affected by a wide range of natural and anthropogenic factors. Water scarcity can arise from different aspects: (i) quality, (ii) temporal water scarcity, and (iii) spatial water scarcity. Various pollutants (agricultural, industrial, or domestic) have caused the contamination of freshwater resources, which ultimately leads to a decrease in usable water and water shortages. Periodic or seasonal water shortages that occur due to changes in rainfall patterns or the occurrence of droughts are known as temporal water shortages. Therefore, this issue can be temporary. The uneven distribution of surface and groundwater resources in the world’s geographical regions has caused water shortages in some areas. The issue of spatial water shortages can be local or regional. Water resource management strategies and plans in each region should be designed and developed based on the type of potential water shortage, challenges, and opportunities of that community.