Assessment of ecological water scarcity in China

Abstract The increasing water use for human activities is threatening the health of ecosystems. Most previous studies on scarcity mainly centered society. In this study, we developed a new indicator, ecological (WS eco ), that considers quantity, quality, and environmental flow requirements. WS was assessed at provincial level in China. results show northern China suffered more severe than southern addition, decreased 65% provinces from 2016 to 2019, implying great achievement China’s effort saving reducing pollution. main driving factor most pollution rather use. findings study demonstrate spatial distribution, temporal dynamics, factors can be used guide efforts restoration sustainable management different regions.