Water supply

Definition

Water constraint is the problem of water shortage.

Reasons

Limited supply of fresh water

Only one percent of the total amount of water on the Earth is fresh water that is readily available for human consumption.

Uneven distribution of water

Some countries have an abundant supply of fresh water, whereas some suffer from a lack of it. What worsens the situation is the fact that some of the countries with a larger population have less a supply of fresh water than those countries with a smaller population(eg. Canada & India). This may be due to the differences in climates.

Water pollution

Fresh water is increasingly polluted by human activities in the world today. Thus, The water is no longer clean from consumption.

Population growth

With more people, there is a greater need for water. Thus, more fresh water has to be shared between more people.

Growth of agriculture

Throughout the world, there is an increasing need to feed the growing populations, thus more water is needed to water the crops.

Growth of industries

Water is an important factor in the daily operation of factories. As these industries expand, more water will be needed.

Changes in lifestyle

As a country becomes more developed, people can afford to buy more items which offer convenience. (eg. air - conditioners, washing machines)

Responses

- increase the price of water

- increase supply of water

- Increase number of catchment areas

- International agreements

- Uses of technology like desalination and NEWater

- Conservation of water

Reflection

To me, water is extremely water. However, there are times when I try to help conserve water and other times, I just cannot be bothered.

Tabitha Chiam