Vol. 11, Issue 4, Part D (2025)

Abstract
Water resources are essential natural assets that support human life, agriculture, industry, and energy production. Despite the Earth being predominantly covered in water, only 3% is freshwater, with just 0.08% readily accessible for use. This limited availability underscores the urgency for sustainable water management. Water resources encompass both natural sources-such as glaciers, groundwater, and surface water-and artificial sources, including desalinated and reclaimed water. However, these resources face significant threats from overexploitation, climate change, pollution, and political conflict. The concept of Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM), founded on the Dublin Principles of 1992, promotes participatory, equitable, and environmentally conscious water governance. Effective management includes optimizing usage, minimizing environmental impact, and ensuring intergenerational equity. Groundwater overdraft, glacier melt, and extreme weather events further complicate water security. IWRM serves as a strategic framework for balancing economic development with ecological sustainability, making it a cornerstone for current and future water policy and decision-making worldwide.