The global water stress indicator measures the pressure exerted by human activities on natural freshwater resources, providing critical insights into the environmental sustainability of water use. High levels of water stress can negatively impact social and economic development, leading to increased competition and potential conflicts among users. This underscores the need for effective supply and demand management policies.

Ensuring environmental flow requirements is essential for maintaining ecosystem health, resilience, and long-term water availability for future generations. This indicator specifically addresses the environmental component of SDG Target 6.4.

This report provides an overview of global, national, and major basin-level progress on water stress. For further details and methodological guidance, visit:

• FAO Integrated Monitoring Initiative for SDG 6
• FAO AQUASTAT

This report is part of a series tracking progress toward the SDG 6 targets using global indicators. To read the full report: visit the following link

To learn more about water and sanitation in the 2030 Agenda and the Integrated Monitoring Initiative for SDG 6, visit: www.sdg6monitoring.org.