Water security assessment of Asian countries for sustainable water management

Abstract

Recognizing a complexity of global water challenges, such as water shortage, water pollution, water-related disasters, and degradation of water environments, this study introduces the newly established concept and definition of water security and water security assessment framework based on the review of previous works on water security. In order to critically assess the situations of water security of each country, an water security assessment framework is employed highlighting the four core areas: 1) social equity; 2) economic efficiency; 3) environmental sustainability; and 4) resilience to water-related disasters. 28 Asian countries have been selected and evaluated for the level of water security, and as a consequence, Japan, Malaysia and South Korea demonstrate a high degree of water security whereas India, Pakistan and the Philippines show a relatively low level of water security. The significance of this study lies in clarifying weak areas in water security as well as suggesting the areas that should be improved for achieving sustainable water management.