Freshwater Scarcity as a Sustainability Indicator: An Empirical Assessment of Its Future Economic and Environmental Impacts

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This study examines freshwater shortages as a measure of sustainability to establish if they can influence future economic development. With an integrative mixed method of combining systematic literature analysis, bibliometric mapping, and conceptual modeling, the research identifies key drivers of water scarcity like climate change, agricultural intensification, industrial expansion, and inefficiency of governance. The study develops an Integrated Freshwater Sustainability Framework (IFSF) that considers the inter-connections among environmental, socio-economic, and policy drivers affecting freshwater availability. Current evidence from ASEAN economies and agriculture land-use studies confirms that good institutional governance and technological progress are capable of mitigating water stress while promoting sustainable growth. Findings highlight that good water management, use of renewable energy, and convergent policy measures are essential to preventing potential economic exposure. The research finds that freshwater shortage must not only be addressed as an environmental problem but also as a strategic measure of sustainability that is the core of world economic resilience and long-term development planning. Scarcity Fresh Water Environmental Impact Economic Development Climate Change Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 Figure 6 Figure 7 Figure 8 Figure 9 Figure 10 Figure 11 1 Introduction Human civilization has historically depended on natural resources with freshwater serving as the essential basis for survival and economic development and environmental stability. The previous century brought about unparalleled environmental damage because of accelerated industrial growth and increasing population numbers and expanded agricultural and energy systems. Human advancements in technology and living standards have reached their peak but these developments require more freshwater than Earth can supply which reveals a fundamental gap between human needs and natural water availability (Hoefsloot et al., 2020 ). The current water emergency exists as a standalone crisis because it reflects the connections between energy use and economic systems and farming practices and environmental stewardship in the larger sustainability problem. Research scientists now concentrate their efforts on understanding how environmental conditions interact with economic development and resource protection. The research conducted in Southeast Asia shows that renewable energy usage together with financial market openness and economic expansion creates multiple opposing effects on environmental deterioration according to Sukma and Leelasantitham ( 2022 ). Renewable energy provides solutions to carbon emissions and water resource issues but unregulated financial and industrial expansion leads to increased environmental damage. The information shows that sustainable resource management needs more than technology because it demands a combination of environmental and economic and social policies for success. The global water system depends on agricultural operations because these operations use about 70 percent of all freshwater resources. The research by Mohan and Abraham ( 2020 ) presents a framework which shows how different agricultural land uses create various positive and negative effects for environmental systems and economic systems and social systems. The research team found through their Chinese county studies that insufficient land planning leads to soil deterioration and water absorption problems and disrupted water management systems. These findings require global resonance since unsustainable agriculture is increasing freshwater depletion, particularly in the arid and semi-arid regions where climate variability exacerbates water stress. Therefore, the resolution of the freshwater crisis necessitates land and water governance strategies with integrated approaches that balance economic productivity and ecosystem resilience. At the regional policy front, the Efficient Agriculture, Stronger Economies in ASEAN white paper (Basu & Shaw, 2013 ) demands multi-sectoral collaboration among governments, the private sector, and local communities in ensuring water-efficient agriculture, climate-resilient technologies, and strong public–private partnerships. The report also demands adaptive policy structures that harmonize food security, water governance, and nature conservation—principles immediately relevant to the contemporary freshwater dilemma. In this regard, water scarcity is not only an environmental problem but also a strategic development problem concerning food security, energy generation, and geopolitical stability. Climate change, pollution, and excessive exploitation have increased the disparity in global freshwater resource allocation. The natural storage systems of water, the glaciers, are shrinking at historic highs (Ratna Reddy et al., 2018 ), leading to lower river discharge and impermanent seasonal water supply. Meanwhile, urbanization and the expansion of industrial areas both exert upward pressure on water demand and enhance water pollution. Industrial effluent, agricultural runoff, and illegal groundwater extraction have all contributed to the crisis, posing threats to biodiversity as well as human health. All these cumulative stresses illustrate that water scarcity is not merely an objective deficit but rather a governance failure—founded on disintegrated policy and temporary economic incentive that ignores environmental constraints. Furthermore, population growth continues to drive the demand for freshwater. The global population, estimated to be heading towards 10 billion by 2050, will put enormous pressure on water-specialized sectors such as agriculture, energy, and industry. Unless the consumption and management efficiency patterns change overnight, freshwater shortages will hit catastrophic proportions, especially in the emerging economies where institutional capacity for sustainable water management is poor. It is most acute in South and Southeast Asia, where monsoon-driven agriculture and fast-paced urbanization intersect with deficient water infrastructure and uneven policy enforcement (Jain et al., 2014 ). Here, measuring freshwater shortage as sustainability provides a telling paradigm for forecasting future economic and social vulnerabilities. The supply of water directly affects the availability of food, the supply of energy, the production of industry, and the health of humanity. Decline in freshwater resources can therefore also be applied as an early warning for more widespread systemic chaos—encroaching national security, migration, and even commerce. As has been seen in most regional studies, competition for transboundary river waters, such as the Mekong and Indus basins, already presages the probability of political crises and humanitarian crises in case the trend is not arrested (Carlson & Cohen, 2018 ). This study contributes to the mounting body of literature by examining freshwater scarcity both as an environmental problem and as an intertwined sustainability problem that harmonizes natural resource depletion with economic resilience. Based on recent empirical and policy research, this study strives to identify the key drivers, implications, and strategic reactions to the global water crisis. In particular, it responds to the ways in which climate change, population growth, industrialization, and governance failure act to collectively contribute to water scarcity and how policies of anticipation at both national and international levels can act against these. Situating the crisis over water within the broader debate on sustainable development, this report aims to provide policymakers and stakeholders with a vehicle with which to foresee errors, design adaptive responses, and make water—our most valuable resource—available to future generations. 2 Literature Review The freshwater crisis worldwide can be explained by nothing less than an interdisciplinary approach integrating environmental, social, and economic systems. Not just environmental problems, freshwater degradation and mismanagement are also signs of more fundamental structural flaws in governance, technology, and sustainability planning. Current studies emphasize that water scarcity is closely interconnected with global trends such as climate change, intensification of agriculture, demographic expansion, and energy needs—all of which interact and create feedback loops that heighten pressure on resources (Paptsov & Popova, 2022 ). Current empirical research in environmental economics has demonstrated the multifaceted relationship between resource use, economic growth, and environmental deterioration. For example, research conducted in ASEAN economies (Asokan & Helfand, 2022 ) discovered that while the use of renewable energy mitigates carbon emissions and water stress, rapid financial and industrial development has the impact of nullifying the benefits through extra pollution and natural resource depletion.. This finding supports the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis only for a few developed contexts and suggests that economic development by itself cannot ensure environmental recovery unless supplemented with institutional change and green innovation. This insight has direct relevance to freshwater management, as economic growth prioritizing short-term gain—i.e., intensive industrialization and unplanned urbanization—has the propensity to destabilize hydrological balance and poison watercourse systems (Rasul, 2016 ). Simultaneous work in agriscience further emphasized that water sustainability has significant implications in land-use management. (Housh et al., 2022 ) developed a framework tracked between agricultural land-use values (ALUB) and ecological and social effects, and findings showed that agricultural intensification without environmental protection degrades soil and water resources. The findings necessitate integrated approaches that trade off productivity and environmental resilience. Unsustainable irrigation, overuse of fertilizers, and land conversion for economic purposes have in most areas accelerated water exhaustion, with agriculture as both victim and perpetrator of water shortages. This body of evidence supports the argument for the management of water shortage through collective land-water governance and cross-sectoral coordination. At policy and private levels, Efficient Agriculture, Stronger Economies in ASEAN white paper (Rasul, 2014 ) moves the debate to another level by citing the role of business–government cooperation towards sustainable management of resources. The report advises the implementation of climate-resilient agriculture strategies, water-efficient irrigation systems, and regional-level water governance mechanisms. Notably, the report also recognizes that shortage of water directly impacts food security, trade competitiveness, and economic stability. The private sector therefore has an important role in using technology and investment in support of water-efficient production systems and pollution reduction. These recommendations are highly consistent with the objectives of the present study, which is to analyze freshwater scarcity not merely as an environmental problem but rather as a systemic risk to sustainable development (Saklani et al., 2020 ). Climate change remains one of the major causes of freshwater scarcity. Global temperature and precipitation changes alter the hydrologic cycle, causing drought in one place and flood in another. Irreversible changes to climate, caused mainly by the release of greenhouse gases, have been accelerating glacial melting and reducing snow cover in large freshwater reservoirs. Observations in the Tibetan Plateau (Crow & Singh, 2000 ) have shown that similarly moderate warming has the potential to significantly alter runoff processes to reduce river flow and destabilize glacial water-dependent ecosystems. Similar trends are observed globally, highlighting the necessity of climate action for adaptation with mitigation and resilience aspects. These findings highlight that water scarcity simply can't be addressed fully unless facing climate change and its cascading impacts on the natural hydrological cycle (Rasul et al., 2021 ). Infrastructures such as dams in the past controlled floods, governed water resources, and produced hydroelectricity. However, as pointed out by social and environmental impacts of large dam studies, the benefits are often incurred at tremendous costs. Dams displace populations, disrupt sediment flow, and alter river ecological processes. Moreover, negligently managed reservoirs lead to evaporative loss and water inequality between regions. The sustainable dam management discourse is growing to support reconciliation of engineering efficiency and environmental and social justice concerns—recognizing that water security is not merely technical but also one of equitable governance (Ashraf et al., 2022 ). Demographic expansion adds to the complications. Population and urbanization lead to a heightened need for water in domestic, agricultural, and industrial applications. Development demography research reveals that population density strongly corresponds with groundwater depletion and waste generation, especially where policy institutions and infrastructure are less developed. Wherever human populations congregate in water-scarce regions, the likelihood of socio-political conflict from resource allocation rises (Wang et al., 2023 ). This demographic-environmental correlation reflects global patterns where resource scarcity is both cause and effect of socioeconomic inequality. Finally, new technologies scholarship, such as HAARP and weather modification systems, suggests growing interest in human control over climatic and hydrologic processes. While the scientific community disputes both their morality and efficacy, these technologies represent an expression of humanity's increasing toleration of altering natural systems in pursuit of stability (Latre et al., 2013 ). Scientists caution, though, that artificial inputs such as these must complement—and not replace—environmental stewardship and sustainable long-term planning. In conclusion, new literature is unanimous in its view that freshwater scarcity is a complex phenomenon triggered by climatic, economic, agricultural, demographic, and governance drivers. Originality of this study lies in applying water scarcity as an index of sustainability—a harbinger of future environmental and economic unbalance. By integrating insights of empirical analysis, land-use studies, and policy analysis, this study contributes to the current discourse on global sustainability and provides an analytical foundation for policymakers to anticipate and prevent the long-term effects of water crises (Józefowicz & Michniewicz-Ankiersztajn, 2023 ). As shown in below Table 1 . 3 Research Method 3.1 Study Design and Approach The study employs a mixed-method design that combines systematic literature review, bibliometric mapping, and conceptual modeling in analyzing the causes, consequences, and probable policy responses to global freshwater deficiency. In general, the aim is to determine freshwater shortage not only as an environmental phenomenon but as a marker of sustainability capable of inducing economic vulnerability and social instability. Methodological foundation is built on empirical as well as conceptual approaches drawn from the literature of contemporary sustainability and environmental economics. Notably, this research draws methodological inspiration from recent works on the nexus of renewable energy, financial openness, and environmental degradation, agricultural land-use trade-offs, and policy-based interventions in resource management. These studies show that sustainable development issues such as water scarcity can be explained using multi-dimensional and cross-sectoral models that incorporate economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Following the same lead, the current research follows a three-step approach: Exploratory Phase – identification of broad themes, variables, and research gaps through bibliometric and content analysis of global reports on freshwater shortage; Analytical Phase – generalization of patterns between the drivers and consequences identified through conceptual modeling in the context of empirical insights Integrative Phase – proposing a policy and governance framework to reverse the socioeconomic impacts of freshwater depletion. 3.2 Data Collection and Sources Information were collected from peer-reviewed journals, policy documents, and institutional reports of the United Nations, the World Economic Forum, the World Bank, and regional organizations such as ASEAN. Systematic literature searches were carried out through the Scopus and Web of Science databases using the following keywords: freshwater crisis, water scarcity, sustainability indicators, climate change, agriculture, and economic development. Bibliographic data were exported in RIS format for further analysis. Literature on renewable energy–environment interaction and agricultural land-use efficiency datasets were also searched in order to search for duplicate indicators relevant to water scarcity and sustainability. Secondary qualitative data were further drawn from global reviews and environmental reports for placing findings within regional and temporal contexts. 3.3 Analytical Tool and Bibliometric Technique For the sake of providing an evidence-based analysis of literature, the study utilized VOSviewer software (version 1.6.x) for network mapping and bibliometric visualization. The software allows one to discern co-authorship networks, keyword co-occurrence, and thematic clusters, which reflect dominant lines of research and inter-disciplinary connections in water studies. Bibliometric process worked through the following steps in order: Import bibliographic data into Scopus/Web of Science; Produce keyword co-occurrence maps and density cluster visualizations Identify thematic relationships between freshwater scarcity, climate change, governance, and economic sustainability; Translate the clusters to abstract research patterns and causal mechanisms. It is the same quantitative mapping method applied in environmental and sustainability studies (as presented in the ASEAN renewable energy–environment nexus paper, 2023), which effectively identifies structural patterns in big data and guides model building. 3.4 Conceptual Model Building From literature findings presented, this study develops a conceptual framework positioning freshwater scarcity as a major indicator of sustainability that is influenced by and influencing several dimensions: policy effectiveness, demographic pressure, economic growth, and environmental degradation. Environmental Drivers (E): Hydrological cycle changes due to climate change, pollution, glacier melting, and land degradation resulting in water shortage. Socio-Economic Drivers (S): Industrialization, population growth, and agricultural intensification driving water demand up. Governance and Institutional Factors (G): Technological innovation, regulatory institutions, and national water policy affecting adaptive capacity. Outcome Variables (O): Sustainability and development indicators like GDP growth, food security, and social stability. The model theorizes that freshwater scarcity is a mediating variable between environmental degradation (E) and socio-economic development (S), moderated by governance capacity (G). Where governance institutions are weak, the negative impact of scarcity on sustainability outcomes is reinforced. Mathematically, the conceptual correspondence can be represented as: $$\:Sustainability=f(E,S,G,FWS)$$ where FWS (Freshwater Scarcity) is both a mediator and indicator of systemic sustainability performance. This framework integrates a synthesis of the nexus approach in the ASEAN renewable energy–environment study and Wang et al.'s (2025) trade-off–synergy framework with the principle of integrated sustainability assessment. As shown in below Fig. 1 . 3.5 The Integrated Framework for Analysis The proposed Integrated Freshwater Sustainability Framework (IFSF) combines empirical observation, policy guidance, and bibliometric validation to evaluate the freshwater crisis in an integrated manner. It operates along three linked dimensions As shown in below Table 2 : The conceptual model is harmonious with the indicator methodology for sustainability, treating freshwater scarcity as dependent outcome (of socio-economic and environmental stress) and independent indicator (of economic vulnerability in the future). It provides a systematic methodology to research the interdependence between sustainable development and the availability of water, replicable at regional or cross-country study levels. 4 Results and Discussion 4.1 Causes of Fresh Water Crises Firstly, we will start with the possible reason why the world is facing the issue of water crises. In this sub-section, we will focus only on this part, which includes As shown in below Table 3 ; 4.1.1 Climate Change With the increase in pollution around the world, one of the most significant effects we are seeing is on the world's climate. It is clearly visible that it is changing natural weather patterns globally, leading to a rise in temperature. This is affecting even areas that used to remain very cold. Now, these areas are also experiencing high temperatures. Because of these changes, several problems are arising. As shown in below Fig. 2 . 4.1.1.1 Melting of the Glaciers Glaciers, which are the main source of stored water, are now melting faster than they used to. This means that this natural water storage is decreasing every year. This is causing serious consequences. Normally, glaciers melt during springtime at a steady pace, slowly adding fresh water to rivers and streams, and helping to keep the water supply balanced. But now, due to the faster melting, the overall water supply we usually have is going down. 4.1.1.2 Decrease in Winter Snow Not only are glaciers melting quickly, but the amount of snow that falls during the winter is also decreasing because of the changes in weather. This means that the amount of water we get from snow is also going down. The world is getting warmer, and this directly affects this natural water supply. 4.1.1.3 Evaporation of Water As the temperature increases, the air becomes warmer. We know that warm air can hold more moisture than cold air. This means that the air can take in more water from lakes, rivers, and ponds, causing a significant increase in evaporation. This leads to a shortage of water on the surface. 4.1.2 Less Capacity of Water Storage Dams are the main way people have created to store natural water and use it when needed. However, some countries are still not able to build enough dams for storing water. This is because building a large dam needs a lot of money, and sometimes governments do not make dams a top priority in their projects. Some governments are not careful about how water shortages can affect future generations, so they focus more on short-term goals rather than long-term planning for the future. As shown in below Fig. 3 4.1.3 Misusage of Water Using fresh water improperly is becoming a big problem for countries and is reducing water storage. Many people are either unaware or not careful about how important it is to save fresh water. They use it for things that are not really necessary, or even when it is needed, they use too much water than what is required. This careless behavior is causing water shortages and will make the problem much worse if we keep doing this and treat fresh water as if it will never run out. 4.1.4 Naturally Decreasing Water Sources No natural resource in the world is unlimited. They all have a limit and will eventually run out. Freshwater is no different. Even if we ignore climate change and pollution, freshwater will not last forever. Without proper planning and solutions, we are just waiting for a disaster. Efficient use and management of water will be essential to ensure its availability for the future. As shown in below Fig. 4 . 4.1.5 Overpopulation of the World Everything in the world, whether it's natural or made by people, depends on how much of it is available and how it's managed. It makes sense that if more people want something, there needs to be more of it available, or else there will be a problem. This means some people might not get enough of what they need, or even none at all. The same applies to freshwater. As the world's population grows, so does the need for and use of water. In the future, this need will keep increasing because the population will keep growing. Because of this, water will be used up more quickly, mainly because of the growing number of people. As we already talked about, there isn't an endless supply of water. This will definitely lead to water shortages in the future, and one day, there might not be any water left at all. 4.2 Impact of Fresh Water Crises Next, we will look at the possible results of the water crisis. In this part, we will only explain what these effects might be.; 4.2.1 War Between Countries Over Water Resources One of the big problems caused by the water crisis is the possibility of conflicts between countries fighting over control of water sources. Water is a basic need for people to survive, and without it, people's lives are at risk. Because of this, in the future, countries may start fighting over water shortages. We can see many examples of this, like how Pakistan and India accuse each other of taking water from rivers by secretly changing the direction of river flow towards their dams in the Disputed Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This water dispute is also connected to the Kashmir issue, since many major rivers that flow between India and Pakistan start in the Kashmir valley. So, whoever controls Kashmir also controls the water of these rivers, which is why Kashmir is considered a lifeline for both countries. Similar conflicts exist between the United States and Mexico over the rights to the Colorado River, and many other countries face similar issues. Right now, the situation hasn't gotten too bad, so these conflicts are mostly handled through peaceful talks or court cases. However, if the water shortage becomes a matter of survival in the future, these disputes could turn into full-scale wars between countries, leading to loss of life. If nuclear-armed nations like the USA, Pakistan, and India get involved in such a conflict, especially since they already have a history of water disputes, the consequences could be very serious, affecting not just the involved countries but the whole world. As shown in below Fig. 5 . 4.2.2 Water Becoming a Commodity With water resources decreasing, the need for water will not go down. In fact, it might even increase or stay the same. When a resource becomes less available and demand stays high, its value goes up. So, it’s not surprising that water could become as valuable as gold, gas, or oil, and maybe even more valuable in the future. Humans can live without oil, gas, and gold, but not without water. As water becomes scarcer, it will become one of the most valuable resources in the world. In the future, countries might even fight over water, just like they have fought over oil in the past, such as during the war between Iraq and Kuwait. 4.2.3 Water Becoming an Asset As water becomes more valuable because of its scarcity and importance, it will start to be seen as an asset. People might use water as collateral to get loans, just like they use gold today. Having a lot of water means you are wealthy, since not everyone can afford it anymore because of its higher value. 4.2.4 Water Becoming a Currency It’s also possible that water could be used as a form of currency. Because water is so important, people will try to trade goods for it. When water is scarce, people are willing to trade almost anything just to get it. So, water might soon become a way to exchange goods between people. 4.2.5 Water Trade Between Countries As water becomes more important and valuable, countries that have a lot of water may start selling it to other countries that really need it. Countries might make agreements to buy and sell water, so that countries that need water can get it and keep their people safe. At the same time, countries that sell water can get money from other countries in exchange for their water. 4.2.6 Humanitarian Crises One of the worst problems caused by water shortages is a humanitarian crisis. People may get sick or even die because they don’t have enough water to stay healthy. It will be hard for people and governments to deal with this situation. In the end, everyone needs water to live, so they may let some people or countries suffer, or they might find a way to help them. But it will depend on what happens over time. As shown in below Fig. 6 . 4.2.7 Exploitation of People or Nations Using Water Power People and countries often act out of greed and power, so it’s possible that some may use the water shortage for their own benefit. Those with control over a lot of water can take advantage of the crisis to get what they want. They might force other people or countries to do things they don’t want to do just to survive. This situation could get worse if they use the water crisis to harm certain groups of people based on race, nationality, or religion. 4.2.8 Lack of Food Items due to Impact on Agriculture Water is essential for growing most agricultural products. Without enough water, crops can't be grown. So, if there is an alternative way to grow these crops without water, it would be important. A water crisis can lead to a food crisis too. People might not only die from not having enough water but also from not having enough food, making the overall situation much worse. As shown in below Fig. 7 . 4.2.9 Changes in City’s Demography People usually move to cities because they offer things like jobs, affordable homes, good education, and good healthcare. With a water crisis, we think people will try to move to cities that have more water, such as those near rivers, lakes, or streams. This will cause a big shift in population from faraway and less water-rich areas to water-rich areas. This change will lead to many problems. 4.2.9.1 Creation of Overpopulated and Abandoned Cities Cities near water sources will become very crowded, while cities far from water will be left empty and abandoned. For example, Las Vegas is predicted to become deserted because of the decreasing water levels in the Colorado River. Similar situations might happen in other cities that depend on water. Overcrowded cities will be a big challenge for governments to deal with, which is one of the negative effects of a water crisis. 4.2.9.2 Civil War Between Citizens Within Countries We already talked about the challenges countries might face from outside their borders as other nations try to take control of water resources. However, there's also a power struggle that can happen inside a country between provinces, states, cities, or even villages. They all want their fair share of the water, which can lead to chaos and even civil conflict among citizens. This situation can get worse for cities that are close to big water sources. People in those areas will do anything to get closer to the water so they can get their share first and have more access to water. 4.3 Actions Need to Be Taken to Save from Fresh Water Crises Now, we’ll look at the steps that government can take to deal with the water crisis and reduce its effects. In this section, we’ll cover the following: 4.3.1 Go Toward Environmentally Friendly Energy To reduce pollution and its effect on climate change, we need to shift toward more sustainable and eco-friendly ways of producing energy. Here are some options: 4.3.1.1 Electric-Powered Energy One of the biggest trends today is using electric-powered devices and vehicles. These are better for the environment and are replacing traditional fuel-based cars and machines, which are major sources of pollution. Companies like Tesla are leading the way in electric vehicles, and more companies are now joining in. This is a smart move, and governments can help by encouraging and controlling how companies develop these technologies. 4.3.1.2 Solar-Powered Energy Another great green energy source is solar power. It gets its energy from the sun, stores it, and then we can use it to power homes, run devices, and even vehicles. The more the sun shines, the more energy the solar panels can collect, which means more power for us. This is a clean, renewable form of energy that can replace fossil fuels. Companies should start using solar energy more.. Also, the government should give incentives and push the private sector to work more on it. 4.3.1.3 Wind-Powered Energy Finally, wind-powered energy is also seen as a good way to produce clean energy, and many countries are moving towards using it. We install big wind turbines in places where the wind is strong, and when the wind blows, it turns the turbines. This movement creates energy that can be stored and later used to make electricity and power various devices. Although it is not as widely used as electric or solar energy, it is still a practical option. Governments can also help in developing and promoting the use of wind energy by supporting its growth. As shown in below Fig. 8 . 4.3.2 Increasing Capacity of Water Storage One of the main ways to store fresh water is by building dams. However, creating large dams is a big challenge because it needs a lot of money. Governments usually either have the funds themselves or seek support from international banks to fund the project. Also, choosing the right location is important because you can't just build a dam anywhere. The site needs to be carefully analyzed to find the best geographical spot. Plus, building a dam takes a long time—between 3 to 7 years, depending on its size. So, it's a long-term project. Therefore, the government should do thorough research and planning well in advance to start construction on time. If too much time is wasted, it may be too late to prevent damage. That is why both the government and citizens should be aware and think clearly about the necessity of building a dam. This project should be completed on time and should not be influenced by which political party is in power. It should be treated as a matter of national importance and carried out without any bias. 4.3.3 Initiatives for Plantation of Trees The best way to reduce the effects of climate change and lower the temperature is by planting trees and encouraging green areas. Trees are vital because they produce oxygen and help control the temperature. However, many people from different sectors are cutting down trees for fuel, industry, or turning forest land into commercial areas. This greed has negatively affected humans and caused environmental problems. A clear example is the Amazon Forest, known as the "lungs of the Earth," which is being rapidly destroyed for commercial and industrial purposes. Because of this, governments need to take action by creating policies to protect forests and starting tree-planting programs. For example, in Pakistan, the former Prime Minister Imran Khan launched a large tree-planting initiative. This not only involved planting millions of trees but also educated people about the importance of trees. As a result, civil society also joined in, and the initiative became a success. Some countries, like Bhutan, have even made laws in their constitutions requiring at least 70% to 75% of their land to be covered with forests, showing their strong commitment to protecting trees. Therefore, every country should take its own steps to save trees. 4.3.4 Discouraging the Water Wastage In discussing the causes of water shortages, we also looked at how dangerous it is for people to ignore water resources and use them carelessly without thinking about the consequences. That is why the government must take action, which includes: 4.3.4.1 Awareness of the Water Wastage The government should organize awareness programs for citizens to teach them about what water wastage is, its effects, and how they can prevent it. In addition, the government can include this topic in school education so that children learn about it from a young age. 4.3.4.2 Laws to Prevent Water Wastage The government should take action by creating strict laws to stop people from wasting water and make sure everyone follows them. Those who break these rules and misuse water should be fined or face other penalties. 4.3.5 Developing Salt Water Filtering Technology Water is a limited resource, and it is being used faster than it can be replaced. Therefore, we need to find new ways to get more water. One promising method is to take salt water from the ocean, then use special plants called reverse osmosis (RO) systems to turn it into clean, drinkable water. If this technology becomes successful, it can help solve long-term water shortages. Countries like Israel are already making good progress in this area. Right now, 70% of the water they use for daily needs comes from desalination, where salt water is filtered to make it safe to drink. As shown in below Fig. 9 . 4.3.6 Creating Recharge Wells Because the need for water is increasing, it is more important than ever to save and protect water. One way to do this is by recharging underground water sources, called aquifers, with rainwater or other surface water. Instead of waiting for nature to do this over time, people can use artificial methods to add more water to the ground. This helps the water soak into the soil and be stored safely. The government can support this by helping to create more efficient ways to recharge groundwater. 4.3.7 Collecting Rainwater Scientists and researchers are also working on ways to collect and store rainwater for everyday use, like drinking. This process involves capturing rainwater in large containers on top of buildings, such as rooftops. Then, the water is directed through pipes and filtered so it becomes safe to drink. This method can be used on a large scale as well as in homes. The government can encourage people to use this system by offering support, incentives, and help with installation. As shown in below Fig. 10 . 4.3.8 Smart Watering System Assignment to Citizens The government will introduce a Smart Watering System that will handle the distribution of fresh water to citizens. With this system, citizens will receive water based on their actual needs, and they will be responsible for planning and managing their fresh water usage. This way, every citizen will have an equal right to use water. If a citizen uses water improperly, they will face the consequences. Additionally, smart water meters will be installed to help homes track their water usage and detect leaks. These meters can be linked to smartphone apps that provide real-time data on water consumption. Families can use this data to identify areas where they can use less water and save money. 4.3.9 Greywater Recycling Greywater is wastewater generated from domestic activities such as washing dishes and doing laundry. This water can be recycled and used for non-drinking purposes like cleaning, watering plants, and flushing toilets. The government can install greywater recycling systems in private homes as well as public buildings such as hospitals and schools. As shown in below Fig. 11 . 4.3.10 Weather Controlling through HAARP Technology This is a topic that is currently getting a lot of attention. People are discussing how weather can be controlled using HAARP technology. With this technology, it is possible to create rain, snow, or any other weather condition. However, it is still debated how much HAARP can actually achieve. That said, we know that artificial rain is already being used in many parts of the world, so the potential of this technology can be further developed over time. It could be used to reduce the effects of climate change and slow its impact, similar to other technologies. In that case, this technology should be used for the benefit of humanity, not as a tool for exploitation or warfare, which many people are worried about. 4.3.11 Space Exploration for Finding Alternative Home Space exploration began in the last century and is now at its highest level of research. We know a lot about the universe and send satellites far away to learn more about it and other planets. Most importantly, we are searching for planets that have a habitable environment similar to Earth, where humans can travel and live. In the future, as water shortages get worse, space exploration will be very important for the survival of humans if things get too bad on Earth. Therefore, every country should join these efforts to find a new home for humans if Earth becomes difficult to live in. 5 Conclusion The findings of this study show that freshwater scarcity is not merely an environmental issue but a multifaceted sustainability issue that impacts future economic and social stability. Global freshwater stocks are being over-exploited as a result of the interplay of climate change, expansion of agricultural land use, industrialization, and governance. These drivers interactively disrupt hydrological processes, reduce water supplies, and undermine food and energy security. Current studies affirm this multidimensional relationship evidence. Research across ASEAN economies validates that open finance and green energy can restrict environmental damage only if supported by strong regulatory systems and green innovation. Similarly, studies on land use indicate that agricultural intensification without environmental protection drains water and land resources, wasting long-term productivity. These findings vindicate the argument of this study that scarcity of water can be regarded as a sustainability measure, reflecting the state of both ecosystems and economies. The Integrated Freshwater Sustainability Framework (IFSF) that is created in this study offers a systemic perspective for understanding how drivers of the environment, socio-economic stresses, and governance systems interact and influence sustainability outcomes. It highlights that good institutions and responsive policies are pivotal to averting freshwater stress and achieving economic resilience. Water scarcity has to be addressed by collective effort across sectors. Investment in efficient irrigation, integration of renewable energy, and data-driven water management is key to sustainable development. Finally, the research highlights that good management of freshwater resources is not only a green imperative but also an economic imperative for long-term economic stability, social equity, and environmental harmony. Declarations Competing interest The authors declare no competing interest Funding No funding received Author Contribution "S.S., M.Y., and H.A.M.wrote the main manuscript text, B.I. prepared figures and Tables, and S.Y. supervised and validated the research. All authors reviewed the manuscript." Acknowledgements The authors express their sincere gratitude to all individuals and institutions that contributed to the conception, design, analysis, and interpretation of data presented in this study. All authors have reviewed and approved the final version of the manuscript and accept responsibility for its accuracy and integrity. Data Availability No datasets were generated or analyzed during the current study. References Ashraf T, Dinar S, Veilleux J (2022) Dams, Terrorism, and Water Nationalism’s Response to Globalization and Development: The Case of South Asia. Terrorism Political Violence 34(5):958–978. https://doi.org/10.1080/09546553.2022.2069449 Asokan A, Helfand I (2022) Climate change and water scarcity will increase risk of nuclear catastrophe in South Asia. Bull At Scientists 78(4):214–217. https://doi.org/10.1080/00963402.2022.2087382 Basu M, Shaw R (2013) Water policy, climate change and adaptation in South Asia. Int J Environ Stud 70(2):175–191. https://doi.org/10.1080/00207233.2013.781736 Carlson T, Cohen A (2018) Linking community-based monitoring to water policy: Perceptions of citizen scientists. 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Frontiers in Environmental Science , 10 . https://doi.org/10.3389/fenvs.2022.918981 Wang W, Guo X, Cao Q, Tang A (2023) A stakeholder perspective on social stability risk of public–private partnerships project for water environmental governance in China: A social network analysis. Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution , 10 . https://doi.org/10.3389/fevo.2022.1022383 Tables Tables 1 to 3 are available in the Supplementary Files section. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Supplementary Files Tables.docx Cite Share Download PDF Status: Posted Version 1 posted You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. 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7","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":37591,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eDependency on Water in Agriculture\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage10.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8186030/v1/829559061c34ff3438afe983.png"},{"id":97666376,"identity":"a1030783-d863-4ff9-a7b6-4d86cdb979f0","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-08 09:21:05","extension":"png","order_by":8,"title":"Figure 8","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":1290536,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eEnvironmentally Friendly Energy Sources\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage11.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8186030/v1/ffa8d690d3cf079df1e749c8.png"},{"id":97417396,"identity":"b4faaeb7-17b0-4df2-8c25-ec548613a180","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-04 07:32:51","extension":"png","order_by":9,"title":"Figure 9","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":105198,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eSaltwater Filtering Technology\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage12.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8186030/v1/f1b466887383c8296e7dae5b.png"},{"id":97417401,"identity":"8aa6aaf7-379e-46ca-9064-431d34d60f55","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-04 07:32:51","extension":"png","order_by":10,"title":"Figure 10","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":505052,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eHarvesting Rainwater Technology\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage13.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8186030/v1/5bd3b46e51bfac47ae6e35a0.png"},{"id":97417404,"identity":"7ffef85a-95ca-470f-928b-efbefc8c1561","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-04 07:32:51","extension":"png","order_by":11,"title":"Figure 11","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":858283,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003eGreywater Recycling Technology\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"floatimage14.png","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8186030/v1/df2074f93cdc6a9f71b59a06.png"},{"id":98431102,"identity":"93e08db1-9aa9-408b-bd90-3138a98c1d40","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-17 16:47:05","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":8347700,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8186030/v1/7da7bb85-fc79-4cdf-98a1-d4a18102578b.pdf"},{"id":97417391,"identity":"9493108b-dc04-4ff5-9e6f-98e5bc649990","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2025-12-04 07:32:51","extension":"docx","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":628973,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"Tables.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8186030/v1/691f44c2cef1d022a7b08676.docx"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Freshwater Scarcity as a Sustainability Indicator: An Empirical Assessment of Its Future Economic and Environmental Impacts","fulltext":[{"header":"1 Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eHuman civilization has historically depended on natural resources with freshwater serving as the essential basis for survival and economic development and environmental stability. The previous century brought about unparalleled environmental damage because of accelerated industrial growth and increasing population numbers and expanded agricultural and energy systems. Human advancements in technology and living standards have reached their peak but these developments require more freshwater than Earth can supply which reveals a fundamental gap between human needs and natural water availability (Hoefsloot et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR6\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e). The current water emergency exists as a standalone crisis because it reflects the connections between energy use and economic systems and farming practices and environmental stewardship in the larger sustainability problem. Research scientists now concentrate their efforts on understanding how environmental conditions interact with economic development and resource protection. The research conducted in Southeast Asia shows that renewable energy usage together with financial market openness and economic expansion creates multiple opposing effects on environmental deterioration according to Sukma and Leelasantitham (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR18\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRenewable energy provides solutions to carbon emissions and water resource issues but unregulated financial and industrial expansion leads to increased environmental damage. The information shows that sustainable resource management needs more than technology because it demands a combination of environmental and economic and social policies for success. The global water system depends on agricultural operations because these operations use about 70 percent of all freshwater resources. The research by Mohan and Abraham (\u003cspan citationid=\"CR11\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e) presents a framework which shows how different agricultural land uses create various positive and negative effects for environmental systems and economic systems and social systems. The research team found through their Chinese county studies that insufficient land planning leads to soil deterioration and water absorption problems and disrupted water management systems. These findings require global resonance since unsustainable agriculture is increasing freshwater depletion, particularly in the arid and semi-arid regions where climate variability exacerbates water stress.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTherefore, the resolution of the freshwater crisis necessitates land and water governance strategies with integrated approaches that balance economic productivity and ecosystem resilience. At the regional policy front, the Efficient Agriculture, Stronger Economies in ASEAN white paper (Basu \u0026amp; Shaw, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR3\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e) demands multi-sectoral collaboration among governments, the private sector, and local communities in ensuring water-efficient agriculture, climate-resilient technologies, and strong public\u0026ndash;private partnerships. The report also demands adaptive policy structures that harmonize food security, water governance, and nature conservation\u0026mdash;principles immediately relevant to the contemporary freshwater dilemma. In this regard, water scarcity is not only an environmental problem but also a strategic development problem concerning food security, energy generation, and geopolitical stability. Climate change, pollution, and excessive exploitation have increased the disparity in global freshwater resource allocation. The natural storage systems of water, the glaciers, are shrinking at historic highs (Ratna Reddy et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR16\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e), leading to lower river discharge and impermanent seasonal water supply. Meanwhile, urbanization and the expansion of industrial areas both exert upward pressure on water demand and enhance water pollution.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIndustrial effluent, agricultural runoff, and illegal groundwater extraction have all contributed to the crisis, posing threats to biodiversity as well as human health. All these cumulative stresses illustrate that water scarcity is not merely an objective deficit but rather a governance failure\u0026mdash;founded on disintegrated policy and temporary economic incentive that ignores environmental constraints. Furthermore, population growth continues to drive the demand for freshwater. The global population, estimated to be heading towards 10\u0026nbsp;billion by 2050, will put enormous pressure on water-specialized sectors such as agriculture, energy, and industry. Unless the consumption and management efficiency patterns change overnight, freshwater shortages will hit catastrophic proportions, especially in the emerging economies where institutional capacity for sustainable water management is poor. It is most acute in South and Southeast Asia, where monsoon-driven agriculture and fast-paced urbanization intersect with deficient water infrastructure and uneven policy enforcement (Jain et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR8\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e). Here, measuring freshwater shortage as sustainability provides a telling paradigm for forecasting future economic and social vulnerabilities. The supply of water directly affects the availability of food, the supply of energy, the production of industry, and the health of humanity. Decline in freshwater resources can therefore also be applied as an early warning for more widespread systemic chaos\u0026mdash;encroaching national security, migration, and even commerce.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs has been seen in most regional studies, competition for transboundary river waters, such as the Mekong and Indus basins, already presages the probability of political crises and humanitarian crises in case the trend is not arrested (Carlson \u0026amp; Cohen, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR4\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2018\u003c/span\u003e). This study contributes to the mounting body of literature by examining freshwater scarcity both as an environmental problem and as an intertwined sustainability problem that harmonizes natural resource depletion with economic resilience. Based on recent empirical and policy research, this study strives to identify the key drivers, implications, and strategic reactions to the global water crisis. In particular, it responds to the ways in which climate change, population growth, industrialization, and governance failure act to collectively contribute to water scarcity and how policies of anticipation at both national and international levels can act against these. Situating the crisis over water within the broader debate on sustainable development, this report aims to provide policymakers and stakeholders with a vehicle with which to foresee errors, design adaptive responses, and make water\u0026mdash;our most valuable resource\u0026mdash;available to future generations.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2 Literature Review","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe freshwater crisis worldwide can be explained by nothing less than an interdisciplinary approach integrating environmental, social, and economic systems. Not just environmental problems, freshwater degradation and mismanagement are also signs of more fundamental structural flaws in governance, technology, and sustainability planning. Current studies emphasize that water scarcity is closely interconnected with global trends such as climate change, intensification of agriculture, demographic expansion, and energy needs\u0026mdash;all of which interact and create feedback loops that heighten pressure on resources (Paptsov \u0026amp; Popova, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR12\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e). Current empirical research in environmental economics has demonstrated the multifaceted relationship between resource use, economic growth, and environmental deterioration. For example, research conducted in ASEAN economies (Asokan \u0026amp; Helfand, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR2\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e) discovered that while the use of renewable energy mitigates carbon emissions and water stress, rapid financial and industrial development has the impact of nullifying the benefits through extra pollution and natural resource depletion.. This finding supports the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) hypothesis only for a few developed contexts and suggests that economic development by itself cannot ensure environmental recovery unless supplemented with institutional change and green innovation. This insight has direct relevance to freshwater management, as economic growth prioritizing short-term gain\u0026mdash;i.e., intensive industrialization and unplanned urbanization\u0026mdash;has the propensity to destabilize hydrological balance and poison watercourse systems (Rasul, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR14\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2016\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSimultaneous work in agriscience further emphasized that water sustainability has significant implications in land-use management. (Housh et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR7\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e) developed a framework tracked between agricultural land-use values (ALUB) and ecological and social effects, and findings showed that agricultural intensification without environmental protection degrades soil and water resources. The findings necessitate integrated approaches that trade off productivity and environmental resilience. Unsustainable irrigation, overuse of fertilizers, and land conversion for economic purposes have in most areas accelerated water exhaustion, with agriculture as both victim and perpetrator of water shortages. This body of evidence supports the argument for the management of water shortage through collective land-water governance and cross-sectoral coordination. At policy and private levels, Efficient Agriculture, Stronger Economies in ASEAN white paper (Rasul, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR13\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2014\u003c/span\u003e) moves the debate to another level by citing the role of business\u0026ndash;government cooperation towards sustainable management of resources. The report advises the implementation of climate-resilient agriculture strategies, water-efficient irrigation systems, and regional-level water governance mechanisms. Notably, the report also recognizes that shortage of water directly impacts food security, trade competitiveness, and economic stability. The private sector therefore has an important role in using technology and investment in support of water-efficient production systems and pollution reduction. These recommendations are highly consistent with the objectives of the present study, which is to analyze freshwater scarcity not merely as an environmental problem but rather as a systemic risk to sustainable development (Saklani et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR17\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2020\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eClimate change remains one of the major causes of freshwater scarcity. Global temperature and precipitation changes alter the hydrologic cycle, causing drought in one place and flood in another. Irreversible changes to climate, caused mainly by the release of greenhouse gases, have been accelerating glacial melting and reducing snow cover in large freshwater reservoirs. Observations in the Tibetan Plateau (Crow \u0026amp; Singh, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR5\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2000\u003c/span\u003e) have shown that similarly moderate warming has the potential to significantly alter runoff processes to reduce river flow and destabilize glacial water-dependent ecosystems. Similar trends are observed globally, highlighting the necessity of climate action for adaptation with mitigation and resilience aspects. These findings highlight that water scarcity simply can't be addressed fully unless facing climate change and its cascading impacts on the natural hydrological cycle (Rasul et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR15\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2021\u003c/span\u003e). Infrastructures such as dams in the past controlled floods, governed water resources, and produced hydroelectricity. However, as pointed out by social and environmental impacts of large dam studies, the benefits are often incurred at tremendous costs. Dams displace populations, disrupt sediment flow, and alter river ecological processes. Moreover, negligently managed reservoirs lead to evaporative loss and water inequality between regions. The sustainable dam management discourse is growing to support reconciliation of engineering efficiency and environmental and social justice concerns\u0026mdash;recognizing that water security is not merely technical but also one of equitable governance (Ashraf et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR1\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2022\u003c/span\u003e).\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDemographic expansion adds to the complications. Population and urbanization lead to a heightened need for water in domestic, agricultural, and industrial applications. Development demography research reveals that population density strongly corresponds with groundwater depletion and waste generation, especially where policy institutions and infrastructure are less developed. Wherever human populations congregate in water-scarce regions, the likelihood of socio-political conflict from resource allocation rises (Wang et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR19\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). This demographic-environmental correlation reflects global patterns where resource scarcity is both cause and effect of socioeconomic inequality. Finally, new technologies scholarship, such as HAARP and weather modification systems, suggests growing interest in human control over climatic and hydrologic processes. While the scientific community disputes both their morality and efficacy, these technologies represent an expression of humanity's increasing toleration of altering natural systems in pursuit of stability (Latre et al., \u003cspan citationid=\"CR10\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2013\u003c/span\u003e). Scientists caution, though, that artificial inputs such as these must complement\u0026mdash;and not replace\u0026mdash;environmental stewardship and sustainable long-term planning. In conclusion, new literature is unanimous in its view that freshwater scarcity is a complex phenomenon triggered by climatic, economic, agricultural, demographic, and governance drivers. Originality of this study lies in applying water scarcity as an index of sustainability\u0026mdash;a harbinger of future environmental and economic unbalance. By integrating insights of empirical analysis, land-use studies, and policy analysis, this study contributes to the current discourse on global sustainability and provides an analytical foundation for policymakers to anticipate and prevent the long-term effects of water crises (J\u0026oacute;zefowicz \u0026amp; Michniewicz-Ankiersztajn, \u003cspan citationid=\"CR9\" class=\"CitationRef\"\u003e2023\u003c/span\u003e). As shown in below Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"3 Research Method","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e3.1 Study Design and Approach\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe study employs a mixed-method design that combines systematic literature review, bibliometric mapping, and conceptual modeling in analyzing the causes, consequences, and probable policy responses to global freshwater deficiency. In general, the aim is to determine freshwater shortage not only as an environmental phenomenon but as a marker of sustainability capable of inducing economic vulnerability and social instability. Methodological foundation is built on empirical as well as conceptual approaches drawn from the literature of contemporary sustainability and environmental economics. Notably, this research draws methodological inspiration from recent works on the nexus of renewable energy, financial openness, and environmental degradation, agricultural land-use trade-offs, and policy-based interventions in resource management. These studies show that sustainable development issues such as water scarcity can be explained using multi-dimensional and cross-sectoral models that incorporate economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Following the same lead, the current research follows a three-step approach:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eExploratory Phase \u0026ndash; identification of broad themes, variables, and research gaps through bibliometric and content analysis of global reports on freshwater shortage;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eAnalytical Phase \u0026ndash; generalization of patterns between the drivers and consequences identified through conceptual modeling in the context of empirical insights\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eIntegrative Phase \u0026ndash; proposing a policy and governance framework to reverse the socioeconomic impacts of freshwater depletion.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e3.2 Data Collection and Sources\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eInformation were collected from peer-reviewed journals, policy documents, and institutional reports of the United Nations, the World Economic Forum, the World Bank, and regional organizations such as ASEAN. Systematic literature searches were carried out through the Scopus and Web of Science databases using the following keywords: freshwater crisis, water scarcity, sustainability indicators, climate change, agriculture, and economic development. Bibliographic data were exported in RIS format for further analysis. Literature on renewable energy\u0026ndash;environment interaction and agricultural land-use efficiency datasets were also searched in order to search for duplicate indicators relevant to water scarcity and sustainability. Secondary qualitative data were further drawn from global reviews and environmental reports for placing findings within regional and temporal contexts.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec6\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e3.3 Analytical Tool and Bibliometric Technique\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor the sake of providing an evidence-based analysis of literature, the study utilized VOSviewer software (version 1.6.x) for network mapping and bibliometric visualization. The software allows one to discern co-authorship networks, keyword co-occurrence, and thematic clusters, which reflect dominant lines of research and inter-disciplinary connections in water studies. Bibliometric process worked through the following steps in order:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eImport bibliographic data into Scopus/Web of Science;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eProduce keyword co-occurrence maps and density cluster visualizations\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eIdentify thematic relationships between freshwater scarcity, climate change, governance, and economic sustainability;\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eTranslate the clusters to abstract research patterns and causal mechanisms.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is the same quantitative mapping method applied in environmental and sustainability studies (as presented in the ASEAN renewable energy\u0026ndash;environment nexus paper, 2023), which effectively identifies structural patterns in big data and guides model building.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec7\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e3.4 Conceptual Model Building\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFrom literature findings presented, this study develops a conceptual framework positioning freshwater scarcity as a major indicator of sustainability that is influenced by and influencing several dimensions: policy effectiveness, demographic pressure, economic growth, and environmental degradation.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cul\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eEnvironmental Drivers (E): Hydrological cycle changes due to climate change, pollution, glacier melting, and land degradation resulting in water shortage.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eSocio-Economic Drivers (S): Industrialization, population growth, and agricultural intensification driving water demand up.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eGovernance and Institutional Factors (G): Technological innovation, regulatory institutions, and national water policy affecting adaptive capacity.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cp\u003eOutcome Variables (O): Sustainability and development indicators like GDP growth, food security, and social stability.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ul\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe model theorizes that freshwater scarcity is a mediating variable between environmental degradation (E) and socio-economic development (S), moderated by governance capacity (G). Where governance institutions are weak, the negative impact of scarcity on sustainability outcomes is reinforced.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMathematically, the conceptual correspondence can be represented as:\u003cdiv id=\"Equa\" class=\"Equation\"\u003e\u003cdiv format=\"TEX\" class=\"mathdisplay\" id=\"FileID_Equa\" name=\"EquationSource\"\u003e\n$$\\:Sustainability=f(E,S,G,FWS)$$\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ewhere FWS (Freshwater Scarcity) is both a mediator and indicator of systemic sustainability performance. This framework integrates a synthesis of the nexus approach in the ASEAN renewable energy\u0026ndash;environment study and Wang et al.'s (2025) trade-off\u0026ndash;synergy framework with the principle of integrated sustainability assessment. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e3.5 The Integrated Framework for Analysis\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe proposed Integrated Freshwater Sustainability Framework (IFSF) combines empirical observation, policy guidance, and bibliometric validation to evaluate the freshwater crisis in an integrated manner. It operates along three linked dimensions As shown in below Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe conceptual model is harmonious with the indicator methodology for sustainability, treating freshwater scarcity as dependent outcome (of socio-economic and environmental stress) and independent indicator (of economic vulnerability in the future). It provides a systematic methodology to research the interdependence between sustainable development and the availability of water, replicable at regional or cross-country study levels.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4 Results and Discussion","content":"\u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.1 Causes of Fresh Water Crises\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFirstly, we will start with the possible reason why the world is facing the issue of water crises.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn this sub-section, we will focus only on this part, which includes As shown in below Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec11\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.1.1 Climate Change\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith the increase in pollution around the world, one of the most significant effects we are seeing is on the world's climate. It is clearly visible that it is changing natural weather patterns globally, leading to a rise in temperature. This is affecting even areas that used to remain very cold. Now, these areas are also experiencing high temperatures. Because of these changes, several problems are arising. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig2\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e2\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec12\" class=\"Section4\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.1.1.1 Melting of the Glaciers\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eGlaciers, which are the main source of stored water, are now melting faster than they used to. This means that this natural water storage is decreasing every year. This is causing serious consequences. Normally, glaciers melt during springtime at a steady pace, slowly adding fresh water to rivers and streams, and helping to keep the water supply balanced. But now, due to the faster melting, the overall water supply we usually have is going down.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec13\" class=\"Section4\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.1.1.2 Decrease in Winter Snow\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eNot only are glaciers melting quickly, but the amount of snow that falls during the winter is also decreasing because of the changes in weather. This means that the amount of water we get from snow is also going down. The world is getting warmer, and this directly affects this natural water supply.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec14\" class=\"Section4\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.1.1.3 Evaporation of Water\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs the temperature increases, the air becomes warmer. We know that warm air can hold more moisture than cold air. This means that the air can take in more water from lakes, rivers, and ponds, causing a significant increase in evaporation. This leads to a shortage of water on the surface.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec15\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.1.2 Less Capacity of Water Storage\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eDams are the main way people have created to store natural water and use it when needed.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHowever, some countries are still not able to build enough dams for storing water. This is because building a large dam needs a lot of money, and sometimes governments do not make dams a top priority in their projects. Some governments are not careful about how water shortages can affect future generations, so they focus more on short-term goals rather than long-term planning for the future. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig3\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e3\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec16\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.1.3 Misusage of Water\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eUsing fresh water improperly is becoming a big problem for countries and is reducing water storage. Many people are either unaware or not careful about how important it is to save fresh water. They use it for things that are not really necessary, or even when it is needed, they use too much water than what is required. This careless behavior is causing water shortages and will make the problem much worse if we keep doing this and treat fresh water as if it will never run out.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec17\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.1.4 Naturally Decreasing Water Sources\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo natural resource in the world is unlimited. They all have a limit and will eventually run out. Freshwater is no different. Even if we ignore climate change and pollution, freshwater will not last forever. Without proper planning and solutions, we are just waiting for a disaster. Efficient use and management of water will be essential to ensure its availability for the future. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e4\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec18\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.1.5 Overpopulation of the World\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eEverything in the world, whether it's natural or made by people, depends on how much of it is available and how it's managed. It makes sense that if more people want something, there needs to be more of it available, or else there will be a problem. This means some people might not get enough of what they need, or even none at all. The same applies to freshwater. As the world's population grows, so does the need for and use of water. In the future, this need will keep increasing because the population will keep growing. Because of this, water will be used up more quickly, mainly because of the growing number of people. As we already talked about, there isn't an endless supply of water. This will definitely lead to water shortages in the future, and one day, there might not be any water left at all.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec19\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2 Impact of Fresh Water Crises\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eNext, we will look at the possible results of the water crisis. In this part, we will only explain what these effects might be.;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec20\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.1 War Between Countries Over Water Resources\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne of the big problems caused by the water crisis is the possibility of conflicts between countries fighting over control of water sources. Water is a basic need for people to survive, and without it, people's lives are at risk. Because of this, in the future, countries may start fighting over water shortages. We can see many examples of this, like how Pakistan and India accuse each other of taking water from rivers by secretly changing the direction of river flow towards their dams in the Disputed Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. This water dispute is also connected to the Kashmir issue, since many major rivers that flow between India and Pakistan start in the Kashmir valley. So, whoever controls Kashmir also controls the water of these rivers, which is why Kashmir is considered a lifeline for both countries. Similar conflicts exist between the United States and Mexico over the rights to the Colorado River, and many other countries face similar issues. Right now, the situation hasn't gotten too bad, so these conflicts are mostly handled through peaceful talks or court cases. However, if the water shortage becomes a matter of survival in the future, these disputes could turn into full-scale wars between countries, leading to loss of life. If nuclear-armed nations like the USA, Pakistan, and India get involved in such a conflict, especially since they already have a history of water disputes, the consequences could be very serious, affecting not just the involved countries but the whole world. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig5\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e5\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec21\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.2 Water Becoming a Commodity\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eWith water resources decreasing, the need for water will not go down. In fact, it might even increase or stay the same. When a resource becomes less available and demand stays high, its value goes up. So, it\u0026rsquo;s not surprising that water could become as valuable as gold, gas, or oil, and maybe even more valuable in the future. Humans can live without oil, gas, and gold, but not without water. As water becomes scarcer, it will become one of the most valuable resources in the world. In the future, countries might even fight over water, just like they have fought over oil in the past, such as during the war between Iraq and Kuwait.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec22\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.3 Water Becoming an Asset\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs water becomes more valuable because of its scarcity and importance, it will start to be seen as an asset. People might use water as collateral to get loans, just like they use gold today. Having a lot of water means you are wealthy, since not everyone can afford it anymore because of its higher value.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec23\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.4 Water Becoming a Currency\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt\u0026rsquo;s also possible that water could be used as a form of currency. Because water is so important, people will try to trade goods for it. When water is scarce, people are willing to trade almost anything just to get it. So, water might soon become a way to exchange goods between people.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec24\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.5 Water Trade Between Countries\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs water becomes more important and valuable, countries that have a lot of water may start selling it to other countries that really need it. Countries might make agreements to buy and sell water, so that countries that need water can get it and keep their people safe. At the same time, countries that sell water can get money from other countries in exchange for their water.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec25\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.6 Humanitarian Crises\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne of the worst problems caused by water shortages is a humanitarian crisis. People may get sick or even die because they don\u0026rsquo;t have enough water to stay healthy. It will be hard for people and governments to deal with this situation. In the end, everyone needs water to live, so they may let some people or countries suffer, or they might find a way to help them. But it will depend on what happens over time. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig6\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e6\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec26\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.7 Exploitation of People or Nations Using Water Power\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003ePeople and countries often act out of greed and power, so it\u0026rsquo;s possible that some may use the water shortage for their own benefit. Those with control over a lot of water can take advantage of the crisis to get what they want. They might force other people or countries to do things they don\u0026rsquo;t want to do just to survive. This situation could get worse if they use the water crisis to harm certain groups of people based on race, nationality, or religion.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec27\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.8 Lack of Food Items due to Impact on Agriculture\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eWater is essential for growing most agricultural products. Without enough water, crops can't be grown. So, if there is an alternative way to grow these crops without water, it would be important. A water crisis can lead to a food crisis too. People might not only die from not having enough water but also from not having enough food, making the overall situation much worse. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig7\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e7\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec28\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.9 Changes in City\u0026rsquo;s Demography\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003ePeople usually move to cities because they offer things like jobs, affordable homes, good education, and good healthcare. With a water crisis, we think people will try to move to cities that have more water, such as those near rivers, lakes, or streams. This will cause a big shift in population from faraway and less water-rich areas to water-rich areas. This change will lead to many problems.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec29\" class=\"Section4\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.9.1 Creation of Overpopulated and Abandoned Cities\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eCities near water sources will become very crowded, while cities far from water will be left empty and abandoned. For example, Las Vegas is predicted to become deserted because of the decreasing water levels in the Colorado River. Similar situations might happen in other cities that depend on water. Overcrowded cities will be a big challenge for governments to deal with, which is one of the negative effects of a water crisis.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec30\" class=\"Section4\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.2.9.2 Civil War Between Citizens Within Countries\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eWe already talked about the challenges countries might face from outside their borders as other nations try to take control of water resources. However, there's also a power struggle that can happen inside a country between provinces, states, cities, or even villages. They all want their fair share of the water, which can lead to chaos and even civil conflict among citizens. This situation can get worse for cities that are close to big water sources. People in those areas will do anything to get closer to the water so they can get their share first and have more access to water.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec31\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3 Actions Need to Be Taken to Save from Fresh Water Crises\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eNow, we\u0026rsquo;ll look at the steps that government can take to deal with the water crisis and reduce its effects. In this section, we\u0026rsquo;ll cover the following:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec32\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.1 Go Toward Environmentally Friendly Energy\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eTo reduce pollution and its effect on climate change, we need to shift toward more sustainable and eco-friendly ways of producing energy. Here are some options:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec33\" class=\"Section4\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.1.1 Electric-Powered Energy\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne of the biggest trends today is using electric-powered devices and vehicles.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThese are better for the environment and are replacing traditional fuel-based cars and machines, which are major sources of pollution. Companies like Tesla are leading the way in electric vehicles, and more companies are now joining in. This is a smart move, and governments can help by encouraging and controlling how companies develop these technologies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec34\" class=\"Section4\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.1.2 Solar-Powered Energy\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eAnother great green energy source is solar power. It gets its energy from the sun, stores it, and then we can use it to power homes, run devices, and even vehicles. The more the sun shines, the more energy the solar panels can collect, which means more power for us. This is a clean, renewable form of energy that can replace fossil fuels. Companies should start using solar energy more.. Also, the government should give incentives and push the private sector to work more on it.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec35\" class=\"Section4\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.1.3 Wind-Powered Energy\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eFinally, wind-powered energy is also seen as a good way to produce clean energy, and many countries are moving towards using it. We install big wind turbines in places where the wind is strong, and when the wind blows, it turns the turbines. This movement creates energy that can be stored and later used to make electricity and power various devices. Although it is not as widely used as electric or solar energy, it is still a practical option. Governments can also help in developing and promoting the use of wind energy by supporting its growth. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig8\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec36\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.2 Increasing Capacity of Water Storage\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne of the main ways to store fresh water is by building dams. However, creating large dams is a big challenge because it needs a lot of money. Governments usually either have the funds themselves or seek support from international banks to fund the project. Also, choosing the right location is important because you can't just build a dam anywhere. The site needs to be carefully analyzed to find the best geographical spot. Plus, building a dam takes a long time\u0026mdash;between 3 to 7 years, depending on its size. So, it's a long-term project. Therefore, the government should do thorough research and planning well in advance to start construction on time. If too much time is wasted, it may be too late to prevent damage. That is why both the government and citizens should be aware and think clearly about the necessity of building a dam. This project should be completed on time and should not be influenced by which political party is in power. It should be treated as a matter of national importance and carried out without any bias.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec37\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.3 Initiatives for Plantation of Trees\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe best way to reduce the effects of climate change and lower the temperature is by planting trees and encouraging green areas. Trees are vital because they produce oxygen and help control the temperature. However, many people from different sectors are cutting down trees for fuel, industry, or turning forest land into commercial areas. This greed has negatively affected humans and caused environmental problems. A clear example is the Amazon Forest, known as the \"lungs of the Earth,\" which is being rapidly destroyed for commercial and industrial purposes. Because of this, governments need to take action by creating policies to protect forests and starting tree-planting programs. For example, in Pakistan, the former Prime Minister Imran Khan launched a large tree-planting initiative. This not only involved planting millions of trees but also educated people about the importance of trees. As a result, civil society also joined in, and the initiative became a success. Some countries, like Bhutan, have even made laws in their constitutions requiring at least 70% to 75% of their land to be covered with forests, showing their strong commitment to protecting trees. Therefore, every country should take its own steps to save trees.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec38\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.4 Discouraging the Water Wastage\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eIn discussing the causes of water shortages, we also looked at how dangerous it is for people to ignore water resources and use them carelessly without thinking about the consequences.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThat is why the government must take action, which includes:\u003c/p\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec39\" class=\"Section4\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.4.1 Awareness of the Water Wastage\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe government should organize awareness programs for citizens to teach them about what water wastage is, its effects, and how they can prevent it. In addition, the government can include this topic in school education so that children learn about it from a young age.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec40\" class=\"Section4\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.4.2 Laws to Prevent Water Wastage\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe government should take action by creating strict laws to stop people from wasting water and make sure everyone follows them. Those who break these rules and misuse water should be fined or face other penalties.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec41\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.5 Developing Salt Water Filtering Technology\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eWater is a limited resource, and it is being used faster than it can be replaced. Therefore, we need to find new ways to get more water. One promising method is to take salt water from the ocean, then use special plants called reverse osmosis (RO) systems to turn it into clean, drinkable water. If this technology becomes successful, it can help solve long-term water shortages. Countries like Israel are already making good progress in this area. Right now, 70% of the water they use for daily needs comes from desalination, where salt water is filtered to make it safe to drink. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig9\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e9\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec42\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.6 Creating Recharge Wells\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eBecause the need for water is increasing, it is more important than ever to save and protect water. One way to do this is by recharging underground water sources, called aquifers, with rainwater or other surface water. Instead of waiting for nature to do this over time, people can use artificial methods to add more water to the ground. This helps the water soak into the soil and be stored safely. The government can support this by helping to create more efficient ways to recharge groundwater.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec43\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.7 Collecting Rainwater\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eScientists and researchers are also working on ways to collect and store rainwater for everyday use, like drinking. This process involves capturing rainwater in large containers on top of buildings, such as rooftops. Then, the water is directed through pipes and filtered so it becomes safe to drink. This method can be used on a large scale as well as in homes. The government can encourage people to use this system by offering support, incentives, and help with installation. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig10\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e10\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec44\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.8 Smart Watering System Assignment to Citizens\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe government will introduce a Smart Watering System that will handle the distribution of fresh water to citizens. With this system, citizens will receive water based on their actual needs, and they will be responsible for planning and managing their fresh water usage. This way, every citizen will have an equal right to use water. If a citizen uses water improperly, they will face the consequences. Additionally, smart water meters will be installed to help homes track their water usage and detect leaks. These meters can be linked to smartphone apps that provide real-time data on water consumption. Families can use this data to identify areas where they can use less water and save money.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec45\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.9 Greywater Recycling\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eGreywater is wastewater generated from domestic activities such as washing dishes and doing laundry. This water can be recycled and used for non-drinking purposes like cleaning, watering plants, and flushing toilets. The government can install greywater recycling systems in private homes as well as public buildings such as hospitals and schools. As shown in below Fig.\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Fig11\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e11\u003c/span\u003e.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec46\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.10 Weather Controlling through HAARP Technology\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is a topic that is currently getting a lot of attention. People are discussing how weather can be controlled using HAARP technology. With this technology, it is possible to create rain, snow, or any other weather condition. However, it is still debated how much HAARP can actually achieve. That said, we know that artificial rain is already being used in many parts of the world, so the potential of this technology can be further developed over time. It could be used to reduce the effects of climate change and slow its impact, similar to other technologies. In that case, this technology should be used for the benefit of humanity, not as a tool for exploitation or warfare, which many people are worried about.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cdiv id=\"Sec47\" class=\"Section3\"\u003e\u003ch2\u003e4.3.11 Space Exploration for Finding Alternative Home\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eSpace exploration began in the last century and is now at its highest level of research.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWe know a lot about the universe and send satellites far away to learn more about it and other planets. Most importantly, we are searching for planets that have a habitable environment similar to Earth, where humans can travel and live. In the future, as water shortages get worse, space exploration will be very important for the survival of humans if things get too bad on Earth. Therefore, every country should join these efforts to find a new home for humans if Earth becomes difficult to live in.\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"5 Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe findings of this study show that freshwater scarcity is not merely an environmental issue but a multifaceted sustainability issue that impacts future economic and social stability. Global freshwater stocks are being over-exploited as a result of the interplay of climate change, expansion of agricultural land use, industrialization, and governance. These drivers interactively disrupt hydrological processes, reduce water supplies, and undermine food and energy security. Current studies affirm this multidimensional relationship evidence. Research across ASEAN economies validates that open finance and green energy can restrict environmental damage only if supported by strong regulatory systems and green innovation. Similarly, studies on land use indicate that agricultural intensification without environmental protection drains water and land resources, wasting long-term productivity. These findings vindicate the argument of this study that scarcity of water can be regarded as a sustainability measure, reflecting the state of both ecosystems and economies.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Integrated Freshwater Sustainability Framework (IFSF) that is created in this study offers a systemic perspective for understanding how drivers of the environment, socio-economic stresses, and governance systems interact and influence sustainability outcomes. It highlights that good institutions and responsive policies are pivotal to averting freshwater stress and achieving economic resilience. Water scarcity has to be addressed by collective effort across sectors. Investment in efficient irrigation, integration of renewable energy, and data-driven water management is key to sustainable development. Finally, the research highlights that good management of freshwater resources is not only a green imperative but also an economic imperative for long-term economic stability, social equity, and environmental harmony.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ch2\u003eCompeting interest\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe authors declare no competing interest\u003c/p\u003e\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFunding\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo funding received\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAuthor Contribution\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"S.S., M.Y., and H.A.M.wrote the main manuscript text, B.I. prepared figures and Tables, and S.Y. supervised and validated the research. All authors reviewed the manuscript.\"\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAcknowledgements\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe authors express their sincere gratitude to all individuals and institutions that contributed to the conception, design, analysis, and interpretation of data presented in this study. All authors have reviewed and approved the final version of the manuscript and accept responsibility for its accuracy and integrity.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eData Availability\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eNo datasets were generated or analyzed during the current study.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAshraf T, Dinar S, Veilleux J (2022) Dams, Terrorism, and Water Nationalism\u0026rsquo;s Response to Globalization and Development: The Case of South Asia. 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This study examines freshwater shortages as a measure of sustainability to establish if they can influence future economic development. With an integrative mixed method of combining systematic literature analysis, bibliometric mapping, and conceptual modeling, the research identifies key drivers of water scarcity like climate change, agricultural intensification, industrial expansion, and inefficiency of governance. The study develops an Integrated Freshwater Sustainability Framework (IFSF) that considers the inter-connections among environmental, socio-economic, and policy drivers affecting freshwater availability. Current evidence from ASEAN economies and agriculture land-use studies confirms that good institutional governance and technological progress are capable of mitigating water stress while promoting sustainable growth. Findings highlight that good water management, use of renewable energy, and convergent policy measures are essential to preventing potential economic exposure. The research finds that freshwater shortage must not only be addressed as an environmental problem but also as a strategic measure of sustainability that is the core of world economic resilience and long-term development planning.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Freshwater Scarcity as a Sustainability Indicator: An Empirical Assessment of Its Future Economic and Environmental Impacts","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2025-12-04 07:32:46","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8186030/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"researchsquare","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":true,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"","snPcode":"","submissionUrl":"/submission","title":"Research Square","twitterHandle":"researchsquare","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":false,"editorialSystem":"","reportingPortfolio":"","inReviewEnabled":false,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"109af7e5-d030-4b1b-a1fd-596f2e28940a","owner":[],"postedDate":"December 4th, 2025","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"posted","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2025-12-14T05:23:27+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2025-12-04 07:32:46","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8186030","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8186030","identity":"rs-8186030","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"8U1c8b4HqxoKbykW_rLl7","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}