Water Security for Ecosystems: Metrics and Pathways for a Sustainable Future explores the mechanisms to support sustainable management of aquatic resources in the context of rising global water demand, global change, and population growth. By identifying resource consumption indicators such as fishing load capacity and virtual water trade, this book sets a clear framework for assessing the ecological footprint of extractive industries. It then proposes pathways to establish largescale water security via integrated aquatic resource management, water-efficient technologies, and sustainable policy intervention.

Written by a renowned team of water resource managers, early chapters in this book define ecological footprints and explore the global policies, industries, and climate forces driving water insecurity. Central chapters explore novel and innovative water conservation techniques, advances in water resource management, and emerging technologies for sustainable water use. Final chapters explore global water policies and the role of international cooperation and propose a roadmap for minimizing aquatic ecological footprints.

Water Security for Ecosystems acknowledges the increased strain placed on global aquatic ecosystems due to unsustainable water use, extractive fisheries and agricultural practices, pollution, and inefficient governance. Addressing these challenges will necessitate a multidisciplinary approach centered on sustainable water management, strengthened transboundary water governance, responsible consumption policies, and global investment to reduce our aquatic ecological footprint. By integrating science, policy, and community engagement in multidisciplinary management recommendations, this book positions itself as an essential resource for water resource managers, researchers, and policymakers alike.

• Supports UN SDGs through policy integration, including the UNFCCC Paris Agreement, to strengthen water security and minimize ecological footprints
• Defines water security concepts and provides indicators for sustainable water resource extraction and use
• Evaluates water surface sustainability with a new approach based on fishing load capacity
• Promotes sustainability via efficient water management, pollution control, and responsible consumption