About this Research Topic
In combating water scarcity, identification of (i) water-scarce and vulnerable regions, (ii) spatial and temporal variation in water scarcity, and (iii) its causes, impacts, and associated risks is of paramount importance. Subsequently, it is crucial to arrest the rise in water demand, to efficiently manage existing water resources, and to enhance water reserves. Such measures require adequate planning, strategy building, and policy making, and their ultimate goal is that of transforming water-deficient zones into water-sufficient regions. This can be achieved through development and application of appropriate strategies, including reactive, corrective, and proactive measures, as well as adaptation to smaller quantities of water. Scientific research, technological innovation, and implementation of plans and policies can help achieve this goal. The strategies, measures, plans and policies may vary from place to place, but the goal remains the same – a society that is free from the plague of water scarcity.
This Research Topic aims to explore various possible solutions to the water scarcity problem, rather than identifying regions and nature (physical or economic) of water scarcity. Manuscripts focusing on and discussing technological innovation, strategic measures, field experiments, and policy framework aimed at water scarcity mitigation are most welcome. Relevant topics include, but are not limited to:
(1) Innovative techniques;
(2) Application of advanced technologies;
(3) Policy making;
(4) Modern irrigation practices;
(5) Aquifer storage and recovery or Groundwater banking;
(6) Rainwater harvesting;
(7) Due harvesting;
(8) Runoff capturing;
(9) Water-loss reduction;
(10) Water treatment, recycling and reuse;
(11) Applications of AI, IOT, Data Informatics;
(12) River linking; and,
(13) Smart City design.
Any other topics related to solutions to the water-scarcity issue are also welcome. Article types that are most welcome include Original Research articles based on field investigation, in-situ/ex-situ experiments, data analysis, and/or modelling, as well as Policy and Practice Reviews, and Policy Briefs. Novel and innovative ideas as well as regional case studies on water-scarcity eradication are also welcome.
Keywords: Water scarcity, water sustainability, water security, water-smart city, water scarcity policy
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.