Conventional water resources associated with climate change in the Southeast Mediterranean and the Middle East countries

Abstract

Conventional water sources in the Southeast Mediterranean and the Middle East play a crucial role in driving the socio-economic progress of the region. This study aims to address the uncertainties, discrepancies, and gaps in knowledge regarding how to combat the climate crisis and extreme weather events impacting traditional water sources. These sources encompass rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and groundwater reservoirs that are vital for agriculture, industry, and daily household needs. The availability and upkeep of water resources in this area are influenced by factors like climate change, population growth, and competing demands from different sectors. The methodology involved an extensive review of research literature curetted from a wide array of international scientific studies and reports, drawing data from sources such as PubMed, EBSCO, Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and UNESCO, WHO databases. The findings underscore the importance of traditional water sources in these regions, underscoring their significance for agricultural, industrial, and domestic applications. The accessibility of water resources varies among nations, with some grappling with water scarcity issues. This research delves into the condition of traditional water sources in the Southeast Mediterranean and the Middle East, shining a spotlight on concerns like water scarcity, pollution, and governance, offering valuable insights into these critical resources.