ABSTRACT
Water demand throughout the world is increasing as a consequence of population growth, changing diets, and economic growth. Moreover, since the 1970s environmental awareness and values have gained currency and recreational demand for water has grown. In the future these influences will continue to increase demand, while increases in supply will be limited due to the predicted impact of climate change and limited opportunities for new major water supply infrastructure within sustainable economic, environmental and political constraints. As a consequence water scarcity will increase, especially within semi-arid and arid regions. Failing to manage these growing demands will have significant environmental, social and economic implications, especially within low- to middle-income countries and communities where water is a key factor to reduce poverty and improve public health.
