Water scarcity is a relative concept and can occur at any level of supply or demand. Scarcity may be a social construct or the consequence of altered supply patterns stemming from climate change. Addressing water scarcity calls for an intersectoral and multidisciplinary approach to water resources management, one that ensures the coordinated development and management of water and related resources in order to maximize economic and social welfare in an equitable manner without compromising the sustainability of vital ecosystems.
- The UN-Water joint plan of action (PoA) includes: 1) knowledge and monitoring; 2) policy guidance and institutions; and 3) best practices and technical advice.
- The strategy underlying the plan focuses on enhanced governance and capacity building at all levels and integrates the basic principles of transparency, subsidiarity and equity.
