Water management sustainability evaluation at the river basin level: concept, methodology, and application

Sustainable water management is essential in combatting the global water crisis that has gripped society and manifested in low supplies of clean drinking water as well as climate change impacts. This study intends to address what can be done to evaluate water management sustainability at the level of river basin effectively and equitably. This research seeks to explore current methods, practices, and best indicators for the evaluation of sustainability in river basin water management through a narrative review methodology. This study has identified various evaluation techniques, such as indicator-based assessments, modeling techniques, and participatory approaches for analysis. This study argues that an effective sustainability evaluation for water management requires an all-inclusive evaluation that considers ecological, economic, and social goals simultaneously. Integration of various methodologies, as well as stakeholder involvement, is vital in creating actionable information and strategies at the river basin level that promote long-term sustainability.