it is noteworthy that recent analyses confirm that these challenges are not limited to developing countries oecd countries are facing similar although different issues and efficient responses require inter alia that waterrelated services are priced in ways which contribute to a range of environmental social economic and financial objectives some regions such as parts of south and east asia australia africa and the middle east do suffer from actual physical water shortages dry areas may not be water scarce if use remains within the limits of local availability conversely wet areas may be stressed if use approaches the limits of availability