Water scarcity, intensified by climate change, over-extraction, pollution, and inadequate management, poses significant threats to global health, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. Particularly vulnerable regions include sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and the Middle East, where rapid urbanization and industrialization exacerbate water stress and hinder equitable access. This review investigates innovative and sustainable strategies and technologies aimed at addressing the growing global water crisis. Emphasizing climate-resilient solutions, the study integrates technological advancements and policy frameworks to support long-term water security. A systematic review of 2024 and 2025 literature was conducted, focusing on empirical and theoretical studies related to sustainable water management. Key technologies explored include solar desalination, atmospheric water generation, wastewater recycling, and smart water management systems. A rigorous selection process ensured the inclusion of high-quality research from regions facing acute water scarcity. Findings reveal the high efficacy of solar desalination in arid climates, the promise of atmospheric water technologies in drought-prone areas, and the benefits of smart irrigation in agricultural efficiency. The review underscores the critical role of interdisciplinary collaboration, robust policy support, international cooperation, and private sector engagement in scaling and sustaining these innovations. It highlights the urgency of coordinated global action and the necessity of embedding sustainability within business and governance practices. Additionally, the review identifies gaps in empirical data regarding the long-term viability of emerging technologies and stresses the need for future research focused on scalability, contextual adaptability, infrastructure development, and policy implementation. Governments should prioritize investments in decentralized, renewable-powered water technologies such as solar desalination and atmospheric water generation tailored to regional needs. Policy frameworks must also incentivize public-private partnerships and support capacity building to ensure long-term implementation and scalability of sustainable water solutions. The review advocates an integrated, multi-stakeholder approach to ensure equitable access to clean water and to safeguard water resources for future generations.
Jack Ng Kok Wah (Sat,) studied this question.