Economic water scarcity: Places where abundance of water coexists with drinking water scarcity

Abstract

Water scarcity is a major challenge faced by many countries, occurring in two main forms: physical and economic. Physical water scarcity happens when water resources are naturally limited, but economic water scarcity results from poor management and underinvestment in infrastructure, even in areas where water is plentiful. This overview focuses on economic water scarcity in Germany, Brazil, Colombia, and Bangladesh, each with its own unique circumstances.

Germany, despite having sufficient water resources overall, experiences shortages in specific regions due to heavy industrial use and inefficient water management. In Brazil, which holds one of the world's largest freshwater reserves, economic water scarcity is a significant issue, particularly in the northeast, where poor infrastructure and uneven distribution leave communities struggling to access water. Similarly, Colombia's abundant water resources are not fully accessible to all, with rural areas facing challenges due to underdeveloped infrastructure. In Bangladesh, recurring floods further complicate water management efforts, and a lack of investment in infrastructure means that many people still face shortages or rely on contaminated sources.

To tackle economic water scarcity in these countries, a combination of better governance, increased funding for infrastructure, and more equitable water distribution systems is essential, particularly for supporting vulnerable populations.