Water scarcity refers to the lack of sufficient available water resources to meet the demands of water usage within a region. This issue can arise from various factors, including climate change, population growth, and pollution. As more people require water for drinking, agriculture, and industry, the pressure on existing water supplies increases, leading to shortages.
There are two main types of water scarcity: physical scarcity and economic scarcity. Physical scarcity occurs when natural water resources are limited, while economic scarcity happens when a region lacks the infrastructure to access or distribute water effectively. Addressing water scarcity is crucial for sustainable development and the well-being of communities worldwide.