Water resources are the key to human well-being, economic growth, and ecosystems, but the growing pressure on them is caused by climate change, high population rates, industrial development, and unsustainable consumption. The quality of water degradation, overexploitation of groundwater, and the growing water scarcity pose a significant threat to the sustainability of the environment, as well as international security. This review examines key drivers and challenges in water resources management, such as climate variability, pollution by traditional and emerging contaminants, lack of governance, and cross-boundary conflicts. It also discusses innovative solutions like advanced water treatment technologies, reuse and recycling systems, nature-based approaches, smart monitoring networks, and integrated policy frameworks that can contribute to a circular and sustainable water economy. In addition, the interdisciplinary approach, climate-adaptive infrastructure, enhanced governance, and increased international collaboration are also highlighted as necessary to attain resilient and equitable water systems. Through a balance between policy innovation and community participation and technological progress, water resource management will be able to shift towards ensuring environmental sustainability and also towards enhancing the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Moon et al. (2026) studied this question.