Which of the following is not a characteristic of sustainable water management?

The selection of this answer highlights an essential principle of sustainable water management. Sustainable practices are fundamentally concerned with meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Ignoring the needs of future generations directly contradicts the core tenet of sustainability.

Sustainable water management involves efficient utilization of water resources, ensuring that current water use does not deplete the resources available for future use. It also emphasizes equitable access, ensuring that all people have fair access to clean and safe water. Furthermore, conservation of aquatic ecosystems is vital to maintaining biodiversity and the overall health of the environment, which is critical for future water supplies. Thus, recognizing the needs of future generations is paramount in any viable strategy for managing water sustainably.