Construction of a hotel on Awaji Island, Japan, has been stopped due to severe water shortages. The authorities and stakeholders involved are seeking solutions to ease the crisis, however progress on the project remains uncertain. This crisis has reiterated the importance of sustainable water resources management in areas of development.

Water shortages are viewed with concern in Japan, as they potentially restrict development and negatively impact the economy, particularly in tourist destinations like Awaji Island. As Japan is typically efficient in water resource management, this issue highlights potential strain on infrastructure due to rapid development.

Similar to the EU and the US, Japan is focusing on sustainable water management. In places like California, water shortages have resulted in serious infrastructural changes to deal with droughts. EU legislation also promotes the sustainable use of water resources.