Ethical Approaches to Sustainable Water Resource Solutions

Global water scarcity presents a considerable challenge, with direct implications to human health, socioeconomic development, and food insecurity on a massive scale. Now more than ever, sustainable engineering solutions are needed to mitigate water scarcity while minimizing environmental impact. Despite the exigencies of global water insecurity, ethical considerations must be accounted for when navigating the complexities of water management, resource allocation, and environmental stewardship. In this work we examine the ethical dimensions associated with solutions to the water crisis and explore moral imperatives underlying the development and implementation of such technologies, including wastewater recycling and stormwater management. Our aim is to promote equitable and sustainable approaches to global access to safe drinking water. We have utilized a multi-dimensional approach, integrating principles of global, environmental, and engineering ethics. In conclusion, drawing upon empirical evidence and the outlined ethical frameworks, this work identifies specific sustainable engineering initiatives which account for the interests of vulnerable populations, promote environmental sustainability, and embrace equitable resource distribution.