What does water security ensure access to?

Water security primarily refers to the reliable availability of an acceptable quantity and quality of water for various uses, including drinking, sanitation, agriculture, and industry. The focus is on ensuring that people have access to sufficient quantities of clean water, which is essential for health, economic development, and ecosystem sustainability.

Clean water is crucial for preventing waterborne diseases and ensuring that populations can thrive. It encompasses not only the physical availability of water but also the management practices that maintain water purity and affordability.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the comprehensive concept of water security. Unlimited water for agriculture suggests an unrealistic scenario that ignores the limits of natural resources and sustainability. The notion of water for industrial use only excludes the vital needs for personal consumption and agricultural use. Lastly, the idea of water management with no regulations implies a lack of governance, which is contrary to the principles of effective water management that promote sustainable use and protect water sources.