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Essay on Water Scarcity

Water is the basic necessity of every human being, but water scarcity is a major issue that is rising very rapidly in India nowadays. The problem has become so severe that in many states the groundwater has almost dried up and people have to depend on water supply from other sources. In addition, water is one of the most misused natural resources that we still waste. It is the central point of our lives but unfortunately, not our priority concern. 

Earlier, people understood the value of water and planned their lives around it. Moreover, many civilizations were born and lost around water, but today, in spite of having knowledge, we still fail to understand the value of water in our lives. 

Reasons for Water Scarcity

Mismanagement of water and the growing population in our country are the two main reasons for water scarcity. There are also a number of other man made disturbances that continue to rise. Besides this, some of the reasons for water scarcity are:  

Wasteful Use of Water for Agriculture  

India, an agricultural country, produces a huge quantity of food to feed its population. The surplus that is left, gets exported outside. 

It is not unknown that producing this much food requires a lot of water too. The traditional method of irrigation wastes a lot of water due to evaporation, water conveyance, drainage, percolation, and the overuse of groundwater. Besides, most of the areas in India use traditional irrigation techniques that stress the availability of water.

However, the technique of irrigation has changed during modern times and we provide water to plants using a sprinkler or drip irrigation.

Reduction in Water Recharges Systems  

Rapid construction that uses concrete and marbles may not let the rainwater get absorbed in the soil, but still, we install some mechanism in our houses so that we can hold the rainwater. Then we can recharge the groundwater.

Lack of Water Management and Distribution

There is a need for an efficient system to manage and distribute the water in urban areas. The Indian government also needs to enhance its technology and investment in water treatment. Besides, we should ensure optimization at the planning level.

Solutions to Overcome this Problem

Close the running tap.

 During dishwashing and hand washing people often let the tap run. These running taps waste thousands of liters of water per year. Therefore, closing the tap will reduce this problem.

Replace Dripping Taps  

In India, it is commonly seen that most of the houses have taps or faucets that go on dripping water even when they are closed. This running tap wastes up to 30,000 liters of water that nobody bothers to change. So, we should replace these taps immediately.

Brief on Water Scarcity  

Water is a basic necessity for every living being.  Life without water is impossible, not just for us humans, but for all plants and animals too. Water scarcity is an issue of grave concern these days as water scarcity has become very common. Water is one of the most wasted natural resources and corrective measures should be taken before the water scarcity situation becomes worse. In spite of being aware of the implications, not much is being done today. 

In India, and across the world, it has been recorded that about half a billion people face a shortage of water for about six months annually. Many well-known cities around the world are facing acute scarcity of water. Many facts and figures are available to know about the water scarcity problem, but what are the reasons for this scarcity? 

With the growing population, the use of water has increased manifold. The lack of more freshwater sources and the increase in population is a major reason for this scarcity. The lack of proper Water management systems and proper drainage systems in India, especially in the urban areas is a major cause too. Kitchen wastewater should be able to be recycled but due to a poor drainage system, this is not possible. An efficient water management system is required in order to distribute water in urban areas.

Another major issue is Deforestation. Areas with more greenery and plants are known to have good rainfall.  Industrialisation and urbanization are two major factors here. Due to Deforestation, and cutting down of trees, rainfall has become an issue too.

Rivers are a major source of fresh water in India. Today we see a lot of industries that have come up and all of them are mostly near the rivers and these rivers become highly polluted as a result of all the industrial waste.

Effect of Global Warming and Climate Change

Global Warming and Climate Change are also responsible for the scarcity of water. The melting of icebergs into the sea due to the rise in temperatures is a reason as to how salty water is increasing day by day instead of freshwater. The percentage of rainfall has decreased drastically these days. Climate change along with the decrease in rainfall percentage has greatly affected freshwater bodies. 

Water scarcity has become a major problem and an alarming issue these days, and we must consciously strive to work together to find some solution to this issue of water scarcity. The Indian government today has formulated and come up with many plans on how to tackle and solve this problem.

To conclude, water scarcity has become an alarming issue day by day. If we do not take the problem of water scarcity seriously now, our future generations are going to suffer severely and may even have to buy this necessity at a high cost.

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FAQs on Water Scarcity Essay

1.  What are the reasons for Water Scarcity?

The lack of proper Water Management and proper Drainage system plays a major role. Many other factors and reasons can be held responsible for the scarcity of water. Some of the major reasons are Global Warming and Climate Change; Pollution of the rivers due to industrialization; Deforestation and the cutting down of trees is another reason; Reduced percentage of rainfall due to the climate change pattern; Increase in the population which leads to increase in the use of water.  Learn more about water scarcity on Vedantu website helpful for long-term.

2. What is meant by the scarcity of water?

The scarcity of water means a shortage of water and not being able to manage the demand and supply of water. Water scarcity refers to the lack of freshwater bodies to meet the standard quantity and demand of water. Unequal distribution of water due to factors like Climate Change and Global Warming. Water Scarcity is also due to pollution and lack of rainfall. Water scarcity means a scarcity due to some physical scarcity or scarcity due to the lack of regular supply.

3. What are the two types of water scarcity?

Physical water scarcity is the result of regions' demand outpacing the limited water resources found in that location. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, about 1.2 billion people live in areas of physical scarcity and many of these people live in arid or semi-arid regions. People who are affected by this Physical kind of water scarcity are expected to grow as the population increases and as the weather patterns keep changing as a result of climate change.

Economic water scarcity is due to the lack of proper water infrastructure and a proper water management system or also because of poor management of water resources. The FAO estimates that more than 1.6 billion people face economic water shortages today. Economic water scarcity can also take place because of the unregulated use of water for agriculture and industry.

4.  How can we solve the problem?

Conscious awareness is required to deal with and understand the problem of water scarcity. We can start off by consciously saving water in our homes and surroundings.  Small easy steps like taking care when washing hands, or when working in the kitchen, have to be taken. The running water taps are a major reason for losing hundreds of liters of water on a daily basis. And we should be careful not to waste this water. Conscious decision to save and the need to understand the problem of water scarcity is of utmost importance.

5. How do we waste water?

Water is wasted in ways we do not even realize, in our homes and in our workplaces. When we brush our teeth, when we shave or when we wash the dishes, one of the most common things we do is to keep the water running, especially when running water is available. As soon as we begin cleaning or washing, we do not think of the water that is being wasted. While washing hands, we leave the water tap on, which results in wasting water too. Small things like these should be kept in mind and this could be our small step towards preserving water.

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Essay on Water Scarcity

Students are often asked to write an essay on Water Scarcity in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Water Scarcity

Introduction.

Water is a vital resource for all life on Earth. However, we are facing a growing problem known as water scarcity. It means not having access to enough clean water.

Causes of Water Scarcity

Water scarcity can be due to physical lack of water or lack of access. Climate change, overuse, and pollution are major causes.

Effects of Water Scarcity

It can lead to health issues, hunger, and even conflicts. It can also harm our environment.

To fight water scarcity, we need to conserve water, reduce pollution, and manage water resources wisely.

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250 Words Essay on Water Scarcity

Water scarcity, a global issue of increasing concern, is defined as the lack of sufficient available water resources to meet the demands within a region. It affects every continent and around 2.8 billion people globally at least one month out of every year.

The primary causes of water scarcity are a blend of natural and human-induced factors. Climate change is exacerbating the issue by altering precipitation patterns, leading to droughts in some areas and floods in others. Human activities, like overuse and wastage of water, deforestation, and pollution, are significantly contributing to water scarcity.

Impacts of Water Scarcity

The impacts of water scarcity are multifaceted and far-reaching. It hampers socio-economic development, leads to food insecurity, and triggers conflicts over water resources. It also poses a serious threat to biodiversity and disrupts ecosystems, which can result in irreversible damage.

Solutions to Water Scarcity

Addressing water scarcity requires a holistic and multi-disciplinary approach. This includes implementing water-efficient technologies, promoting water conservation, improving water management, and protecting water ecosystems. International cooperation is also crucial for sharing water resources equitably and sustainably.

To conclude, water scarcity is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention and action. Through collective efforts, we can ensure water security for all, thereby safeguarding our planet’s future.

500 Words Essay on Water Scarcity

Water scarcity is a pressing issue that has been escalating over the years due to various factors such as climate change, population growth, and inefficient water management. It is a global problem that affects not only arid regions but also places where water seems abundant.

Understanding Water Scarcity

Water scarcity refers to the lack of sufficient water resources to meet the demands within a region. It is not just about the physical insufficiency of water but also involves the lack of access to safe and clean water. The United Nations recognizes it as a crisis, with more than 2 billion people living in countries experiencing high water stress.

Water scarcity is primarily a result of two key issues: increased demand and inadequate supply. Population growth and urbanization have led to a surge in water demand for domestic, agricultural, and industrial purposes. On the supply side, factors such as climate change, pollution, and overexploitation of water resources contribute to the problem.

Climate change leads to unpredictable rainfall patterns and increased evaporation rates, thereby affecting water availability. Pollution from industries and agricultural runoff contaminates freshwater sources, rendering them unfit for consumption or use. Overexploitation, especially through irrigation and damming, exhausts water resources faster than they can replenish.

The impacts of water scarcity are far-reaching and multidimensional. On a human level, it affects health and sanitation, leading to diseases and even death. Economically, it hampers agriculture, which is heavily dependent on water, thereby affecting food security and livelihoods.

Moreover, water scarcity exacerbates social inequalities as marginalized communities often bear the brunt of the crisis. It also has environmental implications, leading to loss of biodiversity and degradation of ecosystems. At a larger scale, it can lead to conflicts over water resources and mass migrations, posing threats to global peace and security.

Addressing water scarcity requires a comprehensive approach that includes both demand and supply-side strategies. On the demand side, it is crucial to promote water conservation and efficiency. This can be achieved through public awareness campaigns, water-saving technologies, and policies that encourage sustainable water use.

On the supply side, strategies include improving water infrastructure to reduce leakages, promoting rainwater harvesting, and implementing wastewater treatment and reuse. Furthermore, protecting and restoring water-related ecosystems can help maintain the natural water cycle and ensure long-term water security.

Water scarcity is a complex problem that requires urgent attention and action from all sectors of society. It is not just an environmental issue but a matter of social justice, economic development, and global security. By understanding its causes and impacts, and by implementing effective solutions, we can pave the way towards a sustainable and water-secure future.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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essay for scarcity of water

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Water Scarcity Essay

Essay On Water Scarcity - People require water for various purposes like cooking, cleaning, drinking, and washing, to name a few. Animals need water for their bodies to function, plants need water to pull nutrients from the soil and stay nourished, and people need water for all the reasons mentioned above. Here are 100, 200 and 500 word essays on Water Scarcity.

Water Scarcity Essay

The lack of freshwater supplies to meet water demand is known as water scarcity. Most nations today have regulations protecting water quality and limiting water usage. Water nourishes not only the soil but also the human body. Nothing can flourish without water. Here are some sample essays on “Water Scarcity”.

100 Words Essay On Water Scarcity

All life forms on this planet require water to survive. Limited freshwater supplies to meet huge water demand is known as water shortage. The water cycle is the process through which the water that is present on earth evaporates, transforms into a vapour cloud, and then precipitates when cold weather develops.

We don't pay much attention to water because it is used and needed by humans and nature every year, yet considering this, water is simply life above and beyond the chemical component. Since the issue has gotten so bad, many states' groundwater supplies are nearly entirely depleted, forcing residents to rely on water from other sources.

200 Words Essay On Water Scarcity

More than 70% of our body weight is made up of water. For the body to function properly, water is necessary. Additionally, water makes up more than 70% of the surface of the world. We should drink water every day as it improves the functions and well-being of our bodies. Water is also required for basic necessities. Since fresh water is the only source of usable water, it is necessary for all everyday activities as well as for human health and the existence of all other living things.

Need For Water

A significant problem that affects nearly half of the world's population is the lack of availability of freshwater. Water scarcity has a variety of effects on human lives, just like climate change and global warming. It makes it harder for humans to live in various parts of the world.

Water is now a vital prerequisite for humankind to thrive on Earth, and this is without debate. Water is also one of the natural resources that we still misuse the most. Given the way things seem these days, humanity is undoubtedly to blame for its scarcity. The global water crisis cannot entirely be attributed to population growth. One of the leading causes of water scarcity is irresponsible water consumption.

500 Words Essay On Water Scarcity

Every human needs water to survive, yet in the World today, water scarcity is a severe problem that is spreading quickly. Although it is the focal point of our existence, it is regrettably not our first focus.

Causes Of Water Scarcity

The leading causes of water scarcity are poor water management and the world's expanding population. A variety of additional man-made problems are also on the rise. Some of such issues are man-made construction obstructing groundwater from being recharged naturally, excess use in agriculture and not having a general sense of awareness of how to use and prevent water pollution are some of the reasons.

Natural Causes Of Water Scarcity

Water scarcity is a result of climate change and global warming as well. One explanation for how salty water is growing daily instead of freshwater is the melting of icebergs into oceans due to the increase in temperatures. The frequency of rain has sharply declined recently. Freshwater bodies have been significantly impacted by climate change, as well as a drop in rainfall percentage.

Water use has multiplied as a result of the expanding population. The decline in water bodies and the rise in population primarily causes this scarcity. Another important factor is India's inadequate drainage and water management systems, particularly in metropolitan areas. To deliver water in urban areas, an effective water management system is necessary.

Well, In the end, altering how this problem is seen requires educating people to encourage new behaviours. All kinds of consumption, from personal use to

the distribution networks of large organisations will need to undergo significant change to adapt to the upcoming era of water shortage.

My Experience

I woke up to the sound of my alarm, feeling a sense of dread wash over me as I remembered the water scarcity situation in my town. It was around April or May, which are considered the hottest months in my town. For weeks, there had been a drought which was getting worse, and the water levels in our water storage had been steadily dropping.

As I dressed for the day, I couldn't help but worry about the future. Water was becoming increasingly scarce, and there didn't seem to be any end to the drought. I knew that it would only be a matter of time before water rationing was put into place, and the thought of standing in line for hours just to get a few gallons of water was enough to make my stomach turn.

It was hard to ignore the signs of the water crisis around me. Lawns were brown and withered, plants were dying, and the normally bustling streets were strangely quiet. As I made my way to school, I started thinking about ways to prevent water wastage and fight this water scarcity. This whole incident made me realise the importance of water in our lives.

The scarcity of freshwater is becoming a severe problem. If we do not address the issue of water scarcity today, future generations will suffer greatly and may even be forced to pay a heavy price for this basic necessity.

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Essay on Water Scarcity 500+ Words

Water, a source of life and a symbol of purity, is a resource that we often take for granted. However, water scarcity is a growing global crisis that demands our attention. In this essay, we will explore the pressing issue of water scarcity, its causes and consequences, and the urgent need for sustainable solutions.

Understanding Water Scarcity

Water scarcity occurs when there is not enough clean, fresh water to meet the needs of a population. It is a complex issue influenced by factors like climate change, population growth, and mismanagement of water resources. According to the United Nations, over 2 billion people around the world already face water scarcity, and this number is expected to rise.

Causes of Water Scarcity

a. Climate Change : Changing weather patterns, including droughts and extreme heat, are disrupting water sources, making them less reliable.

b. Overpopulation : The world’s population is growing rapidly, leading to increased water demand for drinking, agriculture, and industry.

c. Pollution : Pollution from chemicals, sewage, and industrial waste contaminates water sources, making them unusable.

d. Wasteful Practices : Water wastage in agriculture, industry, and households contributes to scarcity.

Consequences of Water Scarcity

a. Health Issues : Lack of clean water can lead to waterborne diseases like cholera and dysentery, affecting millions, especially children.

b. Food Insecurity : Agriculture relies heavily on water, and water scarcity can lead to crop failures and food shortages.

c. Conflict : Water scarcity can trigger conflicts between communities and even nations fighting over limited water resources.

d. Ecosystem Damage : Wildlife and ecosystems suffer as water sources shrink, impacting biodiversity.

Solutions to Water Scarcity

a. Water Conservation : Simple steps like fixing leaks, using water-saving appliances, and practicing responsible water use at home can make a significant difference.

b. Improved Infrastructure : Building and maintaining water supply and sanitation systems can help reduce water losses.

c. Rainwater Harvesting : Collecting rainwater for household use and agriculture can help mitigate scarcity.

d. Desalination : Technology to turn seawater into freshwater is an option for regions with limited freshwater sources.

The Role of Education

Education plays a crucial role in raising awareness about water scarcity. Schools and communities can educate people about responsible water use and the importance of conservation. Students can become water ambassadors, spreading the message about the need to protect our water resources.

Global Efforts to Combat Water Scarcity

International organizations like the United Nations and NGOs are working to address water scarcity on a global scale. They provide funding, expertise, and resources to implement sustainable water management practices in affected regions. Collaboration between countries and communities is key to finding solutions.

Conclusion of Essay on Water Scarcity

In conclusion, water scarcity is a pressing global issue that affects people, ecosystems, and economies. Understanding its causes and consequences is the first step in finding solutions. It is essential for individuals, communities, and governments to take action by conserving water, improving infrastructure, and supporting sustainable practices. Education and global cooperation are vital in our fight against water scarcity. By working together, we can ensure that future generations have access to the life-sustaining resource of clean, fresh water. Water is precious, and its conservation is our collective responsibility.

Also Check: The Essay on Essay: All you need to know

essay for scarcity of water

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  • Water scarcity

Addressing the growing lack of available water to meet children’s needs.

In Djibouti, water is as precious as it is scarce. Since the drought started in 2007, rainfall has dramatically reduced and water levels in traditional wells have dropped forcing women and children to walk long distances for water.

  • WASH and climate change

Even in countries with adequate water resources, water scarcity is not uncommon. Although this may be due to a number of factors — collapsed infrastructure and distribution systems, contamination, conflict, or poor management of water resources — it is clear that climate change, as well as human factors, are increasingly denying children their right to safe water and sanitation.

Water scarcity limits access to safe water for drinking and for practising basic hygiene at home, in schools and in health-care facilities. When water is scarce, sewage systems can fail and the threat of contracting diseases like cholera surges. Scarce water also becomes more expensive.

Water scarcity takes a greater toll on women and children because they are often the ones responsible for collecting it. When water is further away, it requires more time to collect, which often means less time at school. Particularly for girls, a shortage of water in schools impacts student enrolment, attendance and performance. Carrying water long distances is also an enormous physical burden and can expose children to safety risks and exploitation.

Early in the morning, children go to fetch water at the nearest water point, 15 kilometres away from their home in Tchadi village.

  • Four billion people — almost two thirds of the world’s population —  experience severe water scarcity for at least one month each year.
  • Over two billion people live in countries where water supply is inadequate.
  • Half of the world’s population could be living in areas facing water scarcity by as early as 2025.
  • Some 700 million people could be displaced by intense water scarcity by 2030.
  • By 2040, roughly 1 in 4 children worldwide will be living in areas of extremely high water stress.

UNICEF’s response

As the factors driving water scarcity are complex and vary widely across countries and regions, UNICEF works at multiple levels to introduce context-specific technologies that increase access to safe water and address the impacts of water scarcity. We focus on:

Identifying new water resources : We assess the availability of water resources using various technologies, including remote sensing and geophysical surveys and field investigations.

Improving the efficiency of water resources : We rehabilitate urban water distribution networks and treatment systems to reduce water leakage and contamination, promoting wastewater reuse for agriculture to protect groundwater.

Planning for urban scarcity : We plan for future water needs by identifying available resources to reduce the risk of cities running out of water.

Expanding technologies to ensure climate resilience : We support and develop climate-resilient water sources, including the use of deeper groundwater reserves through solar-powered water networks. We also advance water storage through small-scale retention structures, managed aquifer recharge (where water is pumped into underground reserves to improve its quality), and rainwater harvesting.

Changing behaviours : We work with schools and communities to promote an understanding of the value of water and the importance of its protection, including by supporting environmental clubs in schools.

Planning national water needs : We work with key stakeholders at national and sub-national levels to understand the water requirements for domestic use and for health and sanitation, and advocate to ensure that this is reflected in national planning considerations.

Supporting the WASH sector : We develop technical guidance, manuals and online training programmes for WASH practitioners to improve standards for water access.

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Reimagining WASH: Water Security for All

Multi-tiered approaches to solving the water crisis in basra, iraq, increasing water security in gaza through seawater desalination, managed aquifer recharge (mar): protecting communities from saline intrusion of groundwater in costal areas of bangladesh, groundwater early warning system for the south of madagascar, combining manual drilling and solar energy to ensure drought resilience in mauritania, using gis and remote sensing to access water in the drought-prone areas of ethiopia and madagascar, multiples uses of water in madagascar: drinking water, agriculture and livestock, wash climate resilience – compendium of cases, thirsting for a future: water and children in a changing climate.

UN-Water

Water Scarcity

Water can be scarce for many reasons: demand for water may be exceeding supply, water infrastructure may be inadequate, or institutions may be failing to balance everyone’s needs.

Water scarcity is an increasing problem on every continent, with poorer communities most badly affected. To build resilience against climate change and to serve a growing population, an integrated and inclusive approach must be taken to managing this finite resource.

Water scarcity is a relative concept

The issue explained

Water scarcity is a relative concept. The amount of water that can be physically accessed varies as supply and demand changes. Water scarcity intensifies as demand increases and/or as water supply is affected by decreasing quantity or quality. 

Water is a finite resource in growing demand. As the global population increases, and resource-intensive economic development continues, many countries’ water resources and infrastructure are failing to meet accelerating demand.

Climate change is making water scarcity worse . The impacts of a changing climate are making water more unpredictable. Terrestrial water storage – the water held in soil, snow and ice – is diminishing. This results in increased water scarcity, which disrupts societal activity.

Women and girls are among the hardest hit. Poor and marginalized groups are on the frontline of any water scarcity crisis, impacting their ability to maintain good health, protect their families and earn a living. For many women and girls, water scarcity means more laborious, time-consuming water collection, putting them at increased risk of attack and often precluding them from education or work.

Lack of data means lack of integrated management. Many countries do not have well developed water monitoring systems, which prevents integrated water resource management that can balance the needs of communities and the wider economy, particularly in time of scarcity.

Water has to be treated as a scarce resource.

The way forward

Water has to be treated as a scarce resource . Integrated water resources management (IWRM) provides a broad framework for governments to align water use patterns with the needs and demands of different users, including the environment.

IWRM can control water stress. When a territory withdraws 25 per cent or more of its renewable freshwater resources it is said to be ‘water-stressed’. IWRM can control water stress by measures such as reducing losses from water distribution systems, safe wastewater reuse, desalination and appropriate water allocation.

Data, technology and communications have a critical role . IWRM depends on: good quality data on water resources; water-saving, green and hybrid technologies, particularly in industry and agriculture; and awareness campaigns to reduce the use of water in households and encourage sustainable diets and consumption.

Groundwater is part of the solution. Exploring, protecting and sustainably using groundwater will be central to surviving and adapting to climate change and meeting the needs of a growing population.

Facts and Figures

  • 2.3 billion people live in water-stressed countries, of which 733 million live in high and critically water-stressed countries. ( UN-Water, 2021 )  
  • 3.2 billion people live in agricultural areas with high to very high water shortages or scarcity, of whom 1.2 billion people – roughly one-sixth of the world’s population – live in severely water-constrained agricultural areas. ( FAO, 2020 )  
  • Today, 1.42 billion people – including 450 million children – live in areas of high or extremely high water vulnerability. ( UNICEF, 2021 )  
  • About 4 billion people, representing nearly two-thirds of the global population, experience severe water scarcity during at least one month of the year. ( Mekonnen and Hoekstra, 2016 )  
  • 72% of all water withdrawals are used by agriculture, 16% by municipalities for households and services, and 12% by industries. ( UN-Water, 2021 )  
  • When a territory withdraws 25% or more of its renewable freshwater resources it is said to be ‘water-stressed’. Five out of 11 regions have water stress values above 25%, including two regions with high water stress and one with extreme water stress. ( UN-Water, 2021 )

Progress on level of water stress

Progress on level of water stress

108 Water Scarcity Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best water scarcity topic ideas & essay examples, 📌 good research topics about water scarcity, 🔎 interesting topics to write about water scarcity, ❓ research questions about water scarcity.

  • Water Scarcity as a Global Issue: Causes and Solutions Common causes of water scarcity include overpopulation e in regions that have limited water resources, global warming, destruction of water catchment areas by human activities, and pollution of water sources.
  • America’s Growing Clean Water Crisis and the Resulting Diseases The current water crisis in Flint, Michigan, has focused a lot of attention on the state of water infrastructure. Lastly, there will be a not adequate amount of water to help in dissolving the nutrients […]
  • Factors of the Water Crisis in Flint, Michigan The factors that caused the water crisis in this city can be considered negligence of the authorities, ambiguous and contradictory instructions of environmental protection agencies, and corruption.
  • Environmental Racism: The Water Crisis in Flint, Michigan The situation is a manifestation of environmental racism and classism since most of the city’s population is people of color and poor. Thus, the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, is a manifestation of environmental racism […]
  • Flint Water Crisis: Municipal Water Supply System The city of Flint was a thriving industrial center in the third quarter of the last century; however, it had economic difficulties due to the closure of several General Motors factories in the 1980s and […]
  • The Flint Water Crisis and Its Impact The contaminated water has lead to a number of diseases and disabilities, which, in turn, has left the city’s population with a large number of healthcare bills. In conclusion, the Flint Water Crisis is an […]
  • The Flint Water Crisis From Marxist Perspective To understand the causes of the crisis and ways to prevent such problems in the future, it is possible to employ the Marxist approach.
  • Water Scarcity in Africa and Mental Disorders Partially, the reason for the lack of meaningful changes in the policies preventing the causes lies in the social stigma towards patients with mental problems.
  • Flint Water Crisis: Environmental Racism and Racial Capitalism The Flint crisis is a result of the neoliberal approach of the local state as opposed to the typical factors of environmental injustice; a polluter or a reckless emitter cutting costs. The two main factors […]
  • Water Scarcity Problem in Sub-Saharan Africa Since the world has water in abundance, it is necessary that more be done to address the shortage of clean water.
  • Newark Water Crisis: Water Pollution Problem The main problem was rooted in the fact that lead levels in the drinking water were highly elevated, which is dangerous and detrimental to the population’s health.
  • Water Scarcity: Industrial Projects of Countries That Affect the External Environment With the demise of the Yellow River in China, the government started a project to transfer water from the Yangtze River to the northern plains of the country to support farming activities.
  • Jordan’s Water Crisis and Response In particular, the facts about enmity with Israel exacerbate the local political situation, and in the face of the shortage of this valuable natural resource, the struggle for control over the Dead Sea becomes fiercer.
  • Baja California Water Crisis and Its Impact The brewery that is being constructed near the cities of Mexicali and Gallegos by a large corporation is the example of the fact that the situation tends to worsen.
  • How Saudi Arabia Can Overcome Economic Water Crisis? In Saudi Arabia, the water sector has undergone significant transformation as the government tries to mitigate water crisis. The problem of the economic water crisis in Saudi Arabia cannot be attributed only to natural causes.
  • Water Crisis Resolution and Investments Based on the factors mentioned above, it could be said that the primary goal of the paper is to discuss the issue of the water crisis, as it is of paramount importance for the survival […]
  • Water Crisis, Oceans and Sea Turtles Issues In the case of Mexico, it appears that the past regimes have never put a lot of focus on the utilization of water resources.
  • World Water Needs: Water Scarcity Problem in Australia Water is one of the most critical resources that support the sustainability of life and the development of a country’s economy.
  • Water Scarcity, Marketing, and Privatisation In a quick rejoinder, the report by the UNEP, excessive pumping of water from rivers and lakes to support agriculture threatens to dry up water sources.
  • Water Crisis in the Documentary “Chinatown” Water is a critical commodity in the film because it motivates every character, causes conflicts, and affects the lives of the ranchers and farmers in the community. The movie explains why the water demands of […]
  • Blue Gold: Global Water Crisis The issue of water is a global affair because of the alarming rate at which limited fresh water reservoirs is depleted. Globally, the amount of fresh water is dropping and it is believed that fresh […]
  • Scarcity of Water in Saudi Arabia, Africa and Australia Moreover, the destruction of forests, the destruction of water catchments, and the pollution of fresh water sources have also played together in contributing to the reduction of water resources.
  • Global Water Scarcity Causes and Solutions The water consumption patterns across the global vary making the water scarcity and depletion of its sources worse. Concentrations of these gases increase the temperature of the surface of the planet.
  • Trend Analysis: Water Scarcity Issue This is a worrying aspect for the scarcity of water will lead to greater conflict for water. As agriculture is the sector that uses maximum water resources, with increase in population will face a dual […]
  • Water Scarcity and Its Effects on the Environment The core objective of this research paper is to examine water scarcity and its effects to the environment. This is because sufficiency of water supply depends on water conservation methods, distribution channels available in the […]
  • Pesticide Usage and Water Scarcity Water management is a tool for every person to reduce the water shortage. Increase in water price is likely to reduce the consumption as this reduces water wastage.
  • Water Crisis in UAE Ali comments that “the consumption level of water exceeds the available sources” while Boberg asserts that “water is one of the resources that is scarce” made an analysis of the water crisis in UAE based […]
  • Can Virtual Water ‘Trade’ Reduce Water Scarcity in Semi-Arid Countries? The Case of Spain
  • Water Stress, Water Transfer and Social Equity in Northern China: Implications for Policy Reforms
  • Climate Change, Water Scarcity in Agriculture and the Economy-Wide Impacts in a CGE Framework
  • Global Water Crisis and Future Food Security in an Era of Climate Change
  • Economic and Social Impacts of the Water Crisis
  • Rainfall and Human Density and Its Implications for Future Water Stress in Sub-Saharan Africa
  • Water Management From Tradition to Second Modernity: An Analysis of the Water Crisis in Iran
  • Creative and Innovative Solutions to Water Scarcity
  • The Flint Water Crisis and Global Warming
  • Electricity Prices, River Temperatures, and Cooling Water Scarcity
  • Assessing the Economic Impact of North China’s Water Scarcity Mitigation Strategy
  • Deficit Irrigation Under Water Stress and Salinity Conditions: The MOPECO-Salt Model
  • Soil Water Content Criteria for Peach Trees Water Stress Detection During the Postharvest Period
  • Future Water Scarcity in Computable General Equilibrium Models
  • Using Radiation Thermography and Thermometry to Evaluate Crop Water Stress in Soybean and Cotton
  • Coping With Water Scarcity: The Governance Challenge
  • Estimating the Causal Effect of Water Scarcity on the Groundwater Use Efficiency of Rice Farming in South India
  • Instruments for Understanding Agricultural Household Adaptation to Climate Change: Water Stress and Variability
  • China’s Regional Water Scarcity and Implications for Grain Supply and Trade
  • Environmental and Resource Costs Under Water Scarcity Conditions
  • Relationships Between Normalized Leaf Water Potential and Crop Water Stress Index Values for Acala Cotton
  • Australian Water Crisis for Demand and Supply
  • Spinach Biomass Yield and Physiological Response to Interactive Salinity and Water Stress
  • Clean Water Scarcity, Its Policy, and Conservation Measures
  • Preventing the Last Drop: Facing the Water Crisis
  • Water Scarcity and Its Effects on the Environment
  • Drought and Water Scarcity Management Policy in England and Wales
  • Food Security for Sub-Saharan Africa: Does Water Scarcity Limit the Options?
  • Beyond Water Stress: Structural Adjustment and Macroeconomic Consequences of the Emerging Water Scarcity
  • Groundwater Pollution and Drinking Water Scarcity
  • Addressing China’s Water Scarcity: Recommendations for Selected Water Resource Management Issues
  • Dealing With Water Scarcity: Need for Economy-Wide Considerations and Institutions
  • Groundwater Markets Under the Water Scarcity and Declining Water Table Conditions
  • Does Water Scarcity Shift the Electricity Generation Mix Toward Fossil Fuels? Empirical Evidence From the United States
  • Climate Change, Water Scarcity, and Adaptation in the U.S. Fieldcrop Sector
  • Evaluating the Crop Water Stress Index and Its Correlation With Latent Heat and CO2 Fluxes
  • Water Crisis in India – Side Effect of Climate Change
  • Local Water Stress Impacts on Global Supply Chains: Network Configuration and Natural Capital Perspectives
  • Water Scarcity and the Impact of the Mining and Agricultural Sectors in Chile
  • Land Use, Water Rights, and Water Scarcity in Manupali Watershed, Southern Philippines
  • Farm Households’ Resilience Scale Under Water Scarcity
  • Agriculture, Population, Land and Water Scarcity in a Changing World – The Role of Irrigation
  • Water Scarcity – Future Uses and Implications for Policy
  • Potential Benefits From Innovations to Reduce Heat and Water Stress in Agriculture
  • Whole-Plant Metabolic Allocation Under Water Stress
  • Iran’s Water Crisis: Inducers, Challenges, and Countermeasures
  • Grape Composition under Abiotic Constraints: Water Stress and Salinity
  • Interaction Between Light and Water Stress in Plants
  • Causes Implications and Intervention Strategies: Water Scarcity
  • Water Scarcity: Economic Approaches To Improving Management
  • Which Country Suffers the Most From Water Scarcity?
  • How Is Water Pollution and Water Scarcity Related in India?
  • What Are the Characteristics of Water Scarcity?
  • Does Water Scarcity Shift the Electricity Generation Mix Toward Fossil Fuels?
  • Why Do So Many Countries Face Water Scarcity?
  • What Is the Difference Between Water Stress and Water Scarcity?
  • How Has Globalization Impacted Water Scarcity?
  • Will Growing More Trees Help in Solving the Water Scarcity Problem?
  • Is Water Scarcity a Growing Problem in the World?
  • What Caused Water Scarcity in Australia?
  • How Will Businesses Take Advantage of the Impending Water Scarcity?
  • Can the Desalination Technics Definitively Solve the Water Scarcity Issue?
  • How Can the Problem of Water Scarcity in the Hilly Region Be Solved?
  • What Is the Nature of China’s Water Scarcity Problems?
  • Has Any Country Overcome Water Scarcity Since 2000?
  • Is Water Scarcity Directly Related to Energy Demand?
  • What Are the Steps Taken by Governments to Solve the Water Scarcity Problem?
  • How Should We Address the Worldwide Problem of Water Scarcity?
  • Can a Wet Country Like Scotland Face Water Scarcity?
  • Will Drought and Water Scarcity in India Become Serious Issues?
  • Are There Any Steps Taken to Escape the Severe Water Scarcity in the Future?
  • How Does Water Scarcity Affect People Around the World?
  • What Is the Difference Between Physical Water Scarcity and Economic Water Scarcity?
  • Can a Nuclear Fallout Cause Water Scarcity?
  • How Does Water Scarcity Affect Poverty?
  • Will House Prices Go Down in Bangalore in Coming Years Due to Water Scarcity?
  • How Does Water Scarcity Affect Animals?
  • What Is the Economic Impact of Drinking Water Scarcity in India?
  • Are Solutions to Water Scarcity in the UK Environmental or Technological?
  • How Is Water Scarcity Affecting the United States?
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Home — Essay Samples — Environment — Water Scarcity — Water Shortage: A Global Crisis

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Water Shortage: a Global Crisis

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Published: Sep 12, 2023

Words: 503 | Page: 1 | 3 min read

Table of contents

The causes of water shortage, the consequences of water scarcity, potential solutions and mitigation strategies, conclusion: preserving the blue gold.

  • Water Conservation: Promoting water-saving practices in agriculture, industry, and households can significantly reduce demand. This includes adopting efficient irrigation methods, fixing leaks, and implementing water recycling systems.
  • Improved Infrastructure: Developing better water infrastructure, including dams, reservoirs, and distribution networks, can help manage and distribute water more effectively.
  • Desalination: Investing in desalination technology can provide a source of freshwater in coastal regions where seawater can be converted into potable water.
  • Rainwater Harvesting: Encouraging rainwater harvesting at the household and community levels can provide an additional source of freshwater, particularly in areas with irregular rainfall patterns.
  • Policy and Governance: Implementing effective water management policies, regulating water use, and promoting international cooperation in water management are essential steps toward sustainability.

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essay for scarcity of water

Water Scarcity - List of Essay Samples And Topic Ideas

Water scarcity refers to the lack of sufficient available water resources to meet the demands within a region. Essays on water scarcity could explore the causes, such as climate change, over-extraction, and pollution, the impact on communities and ecosystems, and the solutions, like water conservation, technology innovations, and policy measures. They may also discuss the implications of water scarcity on global food security, human rights, and geopolitical tensions. We have collected a large number of free essay examples about Water Scarcity you can find at PapersOwl Website. You can use our samples for inspiration to write your own essay, research paper, or just to explore a new topic for yourself.

Water Scarcity and Pollution

Water is one of the most important natural resources for all living organisms. A normal person could stay alive without aliment for one whole week but not without water. However, in the areas where people experienced water shortage and pollution, safe drinking water was unable to be distributed to them. Water shortage or water scarcity is a condition where there is not enough supply of water to meet human needs. It is a situation that happened in many parts of […]

The Global Water Scarcity Challenges and Solutions

The purpose of this report is to discuss one of the most challenging global problems that we are facing nowadays which is 'The global water scarcity'. In addition to investigating the main sectors that highly consume and waste water and how their high consumption can be addressed. Throughout this report 2 intervention strategies to the water scarcity challenge were discussed .One of them is more educational intervention and the other is a technical one .The first intervention is the world […]

Importance of Water

Water is granted as easy as pushing a button, twisting a knob, and turning a handle. In homes, businesses, and recreations, the cleanest and purest water is accessible to millions. From the water you use to drink, or cook, or shower, and wash your hands, water is involved in everyday encounters. Given an abundant water supply provides convenience and sustainability. Proven by the years, the rural deserts can brochure growth through development of new homes, businesses and farmland for the […]

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Water Crisis in Cape Town and how a Capitalist Approach could Solve the Issue

In this paper, I address the water crisis in Cape Town, South Africa, and how I believe a capitalist approach could help save them from day zero. According to www.study.com, South Africa gained its independence on May 31, 1961. In 1910, the British created the Union of South Africa. South Africa is ranked 4 out of 47 sub-Saharan African countries and overall, is above world averages. South Africa's population is around 55.9 million people. Its GDP is $739.4 billion and […]

Aquatic Equality: Bridging Social Gaps Amidst Water Shortages

In today's global landscape, the quest for fair access to water resources has become a focal point, shedding light on the intricate relationship between environmental harmony and social justice. Aquatic equality digs deep into the disparities surrounding water scarcity, uncovering the multifaceted dimensions of this pressing concern. Beyond its ecological ramifications, water scarcity disproportionately impacts disadvantaged communities, magnifying existing disparities and emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive solutions. At its essence, aquatic equality encapsulates the principle that every individual should […]

The Blue Gold Rush: Economic Ramifications of Water Scarcity

Water, often dubbed "blue gold," stands as a quintessential element crucial for life and economic sustenance. Yet, as populations burgeon and climate change exacerbates, the specter of water scarcity looms ever larger, casting a shadow over global economies. This essay delves into the multifaceted economic implications of water scarcity, illuminating its ripple effects across various sectors. Primarily, water scarcity poses a significant threat to agricultural productivity, a cornerstone of many economies. With agriculture consuming the lion's share of freshwater resources, […]

The Wells Run Dry: Causes of Water Scarcity

The scarcity of water has emerged as a paramount global quandary in the 21st century, impacting billions of individuals worldwide. Its origins are manifold, arising from a confluence of natural and anthropogenic factors that diminish the accessibility of viable water reservoirs. This exposition delves into the diverse contributors to water scarcity, encompassing population expansion, urbanization, industrialization, agricultural requisites, climate fluctuations, contamination, and misadministration of water assets, elucidating the intricate nexus between these constituents. Population escalation serves as a chief catalyst […]

The Ripple Effects of Water Scarcity on Human Health

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Essay on Water Scarcity- Practice Samples For IELTS

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Updated on 27 June, 2023

Mrinal Mandal

Mrinal Mandal

Study abroad expert.

Mrinal Mandal

You can readily write the IELTS   essay on water scarcity without any hassles. What you should do is plan your essay logically, while sticking to a proper introduction, some core points, and a conclusion. Here are some samples to help you practice this essay seamlessly.

Table of Contents

  • Essay on Water Scarcity: Sample 1
  • Essay on Scarcity of Water: Sample 2

Important IELTS Exam Resources

Essay on water scarcity: sample 1 .

Water scarcity is a pressing issue throughout the world. India is no exception to the scenario. A report by NITI Aayog in 2019 confirmed how India is plagued by arguably the largest water-related crisis today, where a whopping 600 million of the country’s population are deprived of water. 

These reports have also stated that 21 major cities, including metropolises like Hyderabad, Bangalore, Delhi, and Chennai, will end up depleting their resources of groundwater over the next few years. Water scarcity has been caused due to a combination of factors in the country. These include privatization and rampant flouting of norms by industries along with faulty execution/planning by the government, human and industrial waste, pollution, and red tape. 

By the year 2050, water scarcity in the country is expected to acutely get worse, with a population increase forecasted to 1.6 billion people. There are still seeds of hope, especially on the back of measures like the  Jal Jeevan Mission and others. Several state governments and urban development authorities are also taking steps to lower overall dependence on groundwater and drive a shift towards potable water in several areas. Awareness campaigns are also on the rise, encouraging water conservation. We also need more rainwater harvesting and water recycling programs in order to tackle the issue from a long-term perspective. To conclude, I would like to state that water is the most precious resource of all. We cannot survive without it. Hence, governments, individual citizens, agencies, and all other stakeholders should come together to  save water as much as possible. 

Tentative Band Score: 7

Word Count: 259

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Essay on Scarcity of Water: Sample 2 

Water scarcity is perhaps the biggest problem affecting India today. The government has officially released its blueprint under the  Jal Jeevan Mission in the 2021-22 Union Budget, allocating Rs. 2,87,000 crore for ensuring water supply to 4,378 towns in total. Tap-drinking water will also be supplied by the government to all households in rural zones by the year 2024. 

While these measures are aimed at addressing the acute shortage of water throughout the country, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, a lot more needs to be done. Some of the biggest reasons behind water scarcity include inefficient and wasteful usage of water for industries, agriculture, and other activities. Pollution and drainage of wastewater are other reasons along with rising construction, and the reduction in water recharging mechanisms for groundwater. There is also the absence of a proper water management and distribution blueprint, especially in urban areas, which emphasizes minimal wastage and resource optimization. 

Groundwater resources are depleting swiftly while draining industrial and sewage-related waste into water bodies is hindering potable water availability alongside. Some of the possible solutions include strict tracking of industries and agricultural practices to avoid inefficient water usage and dumping of waste. Governments can also consider public awareness campaigns for minimizing water usage in our daily activities including washing dishes, cars, and so on. Rainwater harvesting should be made mandatory for all residential projects along with water recycling facilities in neighborhoods. Concrete and sustained measures will go a long way toward helping us mitigate the problem in the near future. 

Word Count: 255

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EssayBanyan.com – Collections of Essay for Students of all Class in English

Essay on Water Scarcity

Water is one of our basic needs and what about when we will not have a drop of water. The way we are wasting water shows that the day is not far behind when there will be very little drinking water left on the planet. So, it is very necessary to save water which will also save us and our planet.

Short and Long Essays on Water Scarcity in English

Some unique essays here may help you to get a better understanding of the topic.

Water Scarcity Essay 10 Lines (100 – 150 Words)

1) Water is the essential requirement of every person.

2) Living things cannot survive without water.

3) Today, the world is facing shortage of water.

4) Growing population is one of the significant causes of water scarcity.

5) Deforestation, lack of water management, pollution, etc contributes to the lack of water.

6) Jal Shakti Abhiyan, Jal Jeevan Mission, etc schemes are initiated to conserve water in India.

7) Natural causes like global warming and climate change is also responsible for water scarcity.

8) Water scarcity also means the unavailability of freshwater in the surrounding.

9) Many people die or suffer dangerous diseases due to the consumption of polluted water.

10) In many places, people perform rainwater harvesting to collect rainwater.

Essay 1 (250 Words) – Facts about Water Scarcity

Introduction

The human body is made up of 60% of water, which is more than half. Can you imagine if your body needs so much water then what about other animals and plants? Definitely, the percentage will differ in all of them; still, you can see the importance of water. I can say that we will die without water. All of us know how important water is then why are we so careless and don’t follow any steps for saving water? I have brought some facts about water scarcity and hope will provoke you to take some steps in water conservation.

Some Facts about Water Scarcity

  • Not only in India but across the world more than half a billion people face water scarcity for more than 6 months in a year.
  • There are many best cities in the world that are running a shortage of water.
  • Every person uses more than 90 gallons of water every day.
  • There are more than thousands of wells, borewells, and ponds dried in India.
  • More than 3 to 4 million people die every year just because of the consumption of polluted water.
  • Less than 1% of Earth’s water is good for consumption and the percentage is decreasing day-by-day.
  • More than a 100miilion people migrate due to drought as well as floods, every year.

The above data will definitely leave you thinking about the shortage of water. If you don’t face water shortage then you are blessed to live in a region where there is a required amount of water. But you should start taking some measures for water conservation; otherwise, soon there will be a day with no fresh source of drinking water on earth.

Essay 2 (400 Words) – Major Reasons for Water Scarcity

The world is continuously developing, we are developing and the nation is developing, development will be soon announced as the word of the decade. But all of us are so much concerned about developing ourselves that we have started neglecting some of our basic needs. Do you know what the important things we need to stay alive are? Of course, they are air, water, and food. We know the importance of these things still we care very less.

Reasons behind Water Scarcity

  • Growing Population : It will be not wrong if I say that every year the population is growing in an uncontrolled manner. The growing population also requires enough food, water to live. So, the use of water has been increased in an uncontrolled way. The freshwater sources are very less as a comparison of the population and this is one of the major reasons behind water scarcity.
  • Lack of Water Management System : There is no proper water management system in our country, especially in urban areas. We have bathrooms and whatever work we do the water goes in drains. There should be a different draining system so that we could reuse the water. Maximum kitchen wastewater can be recycled but due to improper water management systems, it is yet not possible for us. Apart from drainage, rainwater harvesting and other helpful factors are still red in books only. There are very few who apply those methods to save water.
  • Deforestation : Plants not only gives us oxygen but also food and are also responsible for proper rain. They play a very important role and it has been measured that places with more plants have good rainfall in comparison to areas with fewer trees. When there will be proper rain there will be no scarcity of water. The growing industries and urbanization are the main reasons for deforestation.
  • Dumping Waste : Most of the industries are constructed near riverside. Rivers are the major source of freshwater in India. These industries dump their waste in the river, not only industries but also human waste is dumped in rivers. As a result, they are polluted.

Everything needs care either it is air, water, or a relationship. We should always take care of our dear ones otherwise once you will lose them, it will be difficult for you to find it again. We cannot imagine life without water, not only humans, animals, plants, etc everyone needs water, still, we are so irresponsible. We should soon take some steps otherwise there will be a day when there will be no water to drink.

Essay 3 (500 – 600 Words) – Water Scarcity: Causes and How to Overcome it

Earth is known as a blue planet and today we are writing essays on the scarcity of water. Both are a bit contradictory but true. Although there is a lot of water on earth but very little to drink; a famous line of ‘The Rime of the Ancient Marine’ ‘Water-water everywhere but not a single drop to drink’ fits well. Which means there was water all around but was an ocean, which is salty in taste. The sailor in the poem was thirsty but was unable to drink the water around him. There are only 2 to 3% of freshwater sources on earth and the remaining is seawater.

Causes of Water Scarcity

There are different reasons behind water scarcity and I have mentioned them below:

  • Global Warming : It is one of the major reasons for many problems like pollution, a rise in temperature, water scarcity, etc. Due to global warming, the icebergs are continuously melting due to the increase in temperature. These icebergs are melting into the sea and as a result, the salty water is increasing day by day instead of freshwater sources.
  • Climate Change : There is a drastic decrease in the percentage of rainfall these days, which has directly affected our water bodies. Rain is one of the best sources of freshwater. We harvest rainwater and use it in multiple ways but due to the change in climate sometimes we face drought whereas sometimes we also face floods.
  • Reduced Ground Water : Due to the increased population and excess extraction of groundwater many water bodies like well, lakes have dried. Their number is decreasing day-by-day. At first, it was seen in urban areas but now a day’s villages are also facing this issue. And if groundwater is available somewhere it is polluted.
  • Pollution : We don’t care much about our rivers and lakes that is because we throw our waste in rivers. The very first thing is there is no water and what so ever is available we have polluted it. The very best example is the Yamuna River. It is nothing more than a drain now.

How to Overcome Water Scarcity

Our government has developed many plans for water conservation as I have mentioned some of them below:

  • Jal Shakti Abhiyan : For the conservation of rainwater and proving fresh water to everyone. To conduct various camps to teach people the importance of water.
  • Atal Bhujal Yojana : This is made for protecting the dying water bodies like wells, ponds, etc which also focus on the groundwater management system.
  • Jal Jeevan Mission : This scheme is to focus on water availability in the urban and local areas. And they also focus on the management of household wastewater for agricultural purposes.
  • Interlinking the Rivers : There is some Plateau river that dries in summers as a result people in that area face a lot of water scarcity. They are especially found in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, etc. So, to avoid drying these rivers there is a plan of interlinking the rivers. With the help of these rivers across the nation are interlinking and this has also reduced the water scarcity in summers in some special areas.
  • Water ATM : Nowadays these water ATMs are quite famous; they will give you a liter or a glass of water as per your requirement. These machines are customized in such a way that they won’t let extra water to fall. This helps to reduce the wastage of water, especially on the railway stations and public areas.
  • Rain Water Basins : Nowadays the government is concentrating on harvesting rainwater and big basins are made in villages and outer areas to save rainwater. These water basins are helpful in many ways. They increase the groundwater; they are also helpful in agriculture and in many other ways.

It is not only the government to bring such policies, but we should also follow some important measures and should not wastewater. Use if needed otherwise just off the tap and focus on saving water. Otherwise soon there will be a day when we will keep water in our safety lockers.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Ans . Underground water is the biggest source of drinking water on earth.

Ans . There is only 2.5% of freshwater present on the earth.

Ans . Yemen is the country facing the highest water scarcity in the world.

Ans . The biggest source of water in India is the river Ganga.

Ans . The major factors responsible for water scarcity are climate change, increased pollution and population, and excess use of water.

Ans . Brazil is the country in the world that has the highest water resources.

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IAS EXPRESS upsc preparation

India’s Water Crisis – How to Solve it?

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From Current Affairs Notes for UPSC » Editorials & In-depths » This topic

Water is the most valuable natural resource as it is essential for human survival and life on earth. However, the availability of freshwater for human consumption is highly under stress because of a variety of factors. This crisis of water scarcity is most visible in India as well as in other developing countries.

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This topic of “India’s Water Crisis – How to Solve it?” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination , which falls under General Studies Portion.

What is water scarcity?

  • Water scarcity is the lack of freshwater resources to satisfy water demand.
  • It is manifested by partial or no satisfaction of expressed demand, economic competition for water quantity or quality, disputes between users, irreversible groundwater depletion, and negative effects on the environment.
  • It affects every continent and was categorised in 2019 by the World Economic Forum as one of the largest global risks with respect to its potential impact over the next decade.
  • One-third of the global population (2 billion people) live under situations of severe water scarcity at least one month of the year.
  • Half a billion people in the world affected by severe water scarcity all year round.
  • Half of the world’s largest cities have been facing water scarcity.

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How is the water scarcity measured?

  • The absolute minimum water requirement for domestic usage is 50 litres per person per day, though 100-200 litres is often recommended.
  • Considering the needs of agriculture, industry and energy sectors, the recommended minimum annual per capita requirement is about 1700 cubic meters .
  • If a country like India has only about 1700 cu. meters water per person per year, it will experience only occasional or local water distress .
  • If the availability falls below this threshold level, the country will start to experience periodic or regular water stress .
  • If the water availability declines below 1000 cu. meters, the country will suffer from chronic water scarcity . Lack of water will then start to severely affect human health and well-being as well as economic development.
  • If the annual per capita supply declines below 500 cu. meters, the country will reach the stage of absolute scarcity .

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What is the status of water availability in India?

  • India receives 4000 bcm (billion cubic metres) rainfall each year. Out of this, 1869 bcm remains after evaporation = The actual availability is only 1137 bcm.
  • Even in that 1137 bcm of water, there is a lot of temporal as well as regional variations in the availability.
  • For instance, on the one side, there are water surplus states such as Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and on the other side, there are water scarce states such as Maharashtra (Vidarbha, Beed), Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and parts of Gujarat.
  • Moreover, some states that are known to be water abundant such as Punjab, Haryana have their own issues.

What is the magnitude of the water crisis in India?

  • Currently, the annual availability of water is 1123 bcm in India and the demand is around 750 bcm. However, by 2050 the annual demand for water will be 1180 bcm which will exceed the water availability = wide ramifications for the country.
  • 70% of India’s water is contaminated.
  • 75% of households do not have drinking water on its premises.
  • 84% of rural households do not have access to piped water.
  • 54% of the country’s groundwater is declining rapidly than it is being replenished.
  • India’s water table is declining in most regions. Also, there is a presence of toxic elements like fluoride, arsenic, mercury, even uranium in our groundwater.
  • Water levels in India’s major reservoirs have fallen to 21% of the average of the last decade.
  • Hundreds of small and seasonal rivers are perishing permanently.
  • Almost all the major perennial rivers remain stagnant.
  • Cauvery and its tributaries haven’t met the ocean for decades; the upstream dams choke its flows downstream, affecting people in Tamil Nadu.
  • Krishna river runs dry in her delta region for most of the year.
  • According to NITI Aayog’s water quality index, India ranks 120 th among 122 countries.

essay for scarcity of water

What is the recent water crisis in India?

  • Maharashtra is facing a water crisis of unprecedented proportions. After years of drought, the river currents have ebbed, water in dams and reservoirs have depleted and over-exploitation of groundwater has raised concerns regarding the long-term availability of water.
  • Meanwhile, media reports claim IT firms in Chennai are asking employees to work from home. The reason is that they don’t have enough water to sustain their operations. It hasn’t rained for almost 200 days in the city and it may not get adequate rain to get over the water crisis for the next 3 months.
  • In North India, the people of arid Thar Desert of Rajasthan are spending Rs. 2500 for getting 2500 litres of water which they share with their cattle.
  • With Punjab facing the threat of desertification and the state struggling to break away from the wheat-paddy cycle, farmers in the state have been adopting a decade-old scheme to utilise underground pipeline system for irrigation.
  • In light of this crisis, Central government on its part has created a Jal Shakti Ministry under a full-fledged cabinet minister to resolve the water crisis but a lot more needs to be done.

essay for scarcity of water

What are the reasons for this crisis?

Monsoon dependence:.

There is a huge dependence on monsoon rains to replenish most of India’s important water sources such as underground aquifers, lakes, rivers, and reservoirs . But monsoon is vulnerable to factors such as climate change, El-Nino , etc.

Uneven distribution of water and Rainfall pattern :

Certain regions have surplus amounts of water for their need while others face perennial droughts for most of the year. For instance, Drought is a recurrent phenomenon in Andhra Pradesh where no district is entirely free of droughts. Rajasthan is one of the most drought-prone areas of India.

Increasing demand :

Population growth, industrialization, rapid urbanisation, rising needs of irrigation and increase in domestic water usage have accelerated the demand for water. Since urbanization increases in India at a rapid pace = water demand will increase rapidly as city dwellers consume more water than rural people.

Urbanisation & Water scarcity:

  • Currently, about 285 million or 33% of India’s total population resides in urban areas. By 2050 this figure will reach 50%.
  • Rapid urbanisation is adding to the water scarcity issue in the country.
  • Presence of buildings, tar, and cement roads = even if a city like Mumbai gets good rains, the rainwater is not retained in the area as the water is not allowed to percolate underground.
  • Therefore, water required for cities is largely drawn from neighbouring villages and far-off rivers and lakes = threatening the availability in those areas.
  • Large cities also generate large quantities of urban sewage which pollutes the freshwater sources and ocean waters. However, only about 20% of urban wastewater is currently treated globally. In India, the figure is even lower.

Overexploitation :

  • In developing countries like India, groundwater fulfills nearly 80% of irrigation requirement = resulted in a fast depletion of groundwater sources.
  • Free power and inefficient utilisation of water by farmers has added to the issue of groundwater depletion.
  • The groundwater and sand extraction from most river beds and basins has turned unsustainable.
  • Tanks and ponds are encroached upon.
  • Dug-wells and borewells are carelessly built to slide deeper and deeper to suck water from greater depths.

Shift to cash-crops:

Water is being diverted from food crops to cash crops that consume an enormous quantity of water.

Inefficient cultivation practices:

  • In India, around 70% of the population is still dependent on agriculture for its livelihood.
  • Since the adoption of Green Revolution in the 1960s, nearly 50% of the food production comes from irrigated land.
  • But inefficient cultivation practices have led to the flooding of fertile land which in turn has caused salinization, siltation of reservoirs, etc = causing groundwater reserves of major agricultural states to be depleted at an alarming rate.

Water Pollution :

  • Release of industrial and domestic waste, including urban sewage, into rivers, lakes, and estuaries has polluted freshwater sources at an alarming rate in India = those fresh water sources are not fit for drinking or other activities.
  • Eutrophication of surface water and coastal zones is expected to increase almost everywhere leads to nitrogen pollution .

What are the impacts of the water crisis?

Economic growth: A Niti Aayog report predicted that water demand will be twice the present supply by 2030 and India could lose up to 6% of its GDP during that time.

Power supply: Water shortages are hurting India’s capacity to generate electricity because 40% of thermal power plants are located in areas where water scarcity is high.

Agricultural crisis: Indian agriculture is heavily dependent on monsoon (not dependable) + Ineffective agricultural practices in irrigated areas = Water stress in agriculture = Poor Cultivation = Farmer suicides .

Drinking water scarcity: Not only farmers are affected by the water crisis, urban dwellers in cities and towns across India are also facing a never seen before drinking water scarcity.

Conflicts over water : In India, there are conflicts between Karnataka and Tamil Nadu over sharing of Cauvery waters, between Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh over sharing of Narmada waters, between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana over sharing of Krishna waters, etc.

What are the measures taken by the government?

Across the country, states are taking the lead:.

  • In Rajasthan, there is a scheme named ‘Mukhya Mantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan’. One of its objectives is to facilitate effective implementation of water conservation and water harvesting related activities in rural areas.
  • Maharashtra has launched a project called ‘Jalyukt-Shivar’, which seeks to make 5000 villages free of water scarcity every year.
  • accelerating the development of minor irrigation infrastructure,
  • strengthening community-based irrigation management and
  • adopting a comprehensive programme for restoration of tanks.

Jal Shakti Abhiyan:

  • It is a collaborative initiative of various Union Ministries and State Governments, being coordinated by the Department of Drinking Water and Sanitation (DDWS).
  • Focus Area: is water-stressed districts (256) and blocks (1592).
  • Team: Central government officers, headed by joint secretaries and additional secretaries, are assigned to these 256 districts and district administration will also select 2 members to join the team. This team of officers from the central government and district administration will visit and work on water-stressed districts and blocks to ensure water conservation initiatives.
  • The campaign is centered on 5 aspects
  • Water conservation and rainwater harvesting
  • Renovation of traditional and other water bodies/tanks
  • Reuse of water and recharging of structures like bore well
  • Watershed development
  • Intensive afforestation
  • Significance: With this initiative, the government seeks to provide drinking water to all households on a priority and in a sustainable way. It is also expected to bring a positive mindset in people for water conservation. The campaign will assist people to work for rainwater harvesting, maintenance, and upkeep of ponds and village tanks and conservation of water.

Jal Shakti Mantralaya

  • The government has created a new Ministry named ‘Jal Shakti’after merging Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation with the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
  • Providing clean drinking water,
  • International and inter-states water disputes,
  • Namami Gange project aimed at cleaning Ganga and its tributaries, and sub-tributaries.
  • The ministry will launch the government’s ambitious plan (‘Nal se Jal’ scheme under jal jivan plan) to provide piped drinking water supply to every household in India by 2024.
  • This Move seeks to consolidate the administration and bringing water-related issues such as conservation, development, management, and abatement of pollution under a single ministry.
  • National River Conservation Directorate (NRCD) is responsible for implementing the centrally sponsored national river conservation plan for all rivers across the country except river Ganga and its tributaries (as issues regarding Ganga and its tributaries are taken up by National Mission for Clean Ganga).

Jal Jeevan Mission *

essay for scarcity of water

Atal Bhujal Yojana *

  •  It is a world bank funded central scheme that aims to improve groundwater management at the national level… Read More .

Can a new water ministry tackle the worst water crisis in Indian history?

  • Experts are of the opinion that an exclusive ministry can only bring about a cosmetic but not a real change.
  • Water is a state subject = Unless states make specific requests the centre cannot intervene.

What are the solutions to the water crisis in India?

Good water management practices :

  • India receives adequate annual rainfall through the south-west monsoon. However, most regions of the country are still water deficient mainly because of inefficient water management practices.
  • Rainwater harvesting should be encouraged on a large scale, especially, in cities where the surface runoff of rainwater is very high.
  • Roof-top rainwater harvesting can also be utilised to recharge groundwater by digging percolation pits around the house and filling it with gravel.
  • Indian cities need to learn from Cape Town of South Africa which when faced with the water crisis in 2018 had announced “ Day Zero “. During that day, water-taps in the city turned off = people had to use communal water-taps to conserve water. Restrictions on water use per person were also fixed.
  • Since water is a state subject in India state governments should take active measures and create awareness for the minimal use of water.

Interlinking of rivers :

  • Interlinking of rivers is a topic that has been discussed and debated for several years as a possible permanent solution to the water crisis in the country.
  • The 3 primary advantages mentioned in favour of the scheme are (1) droughts will never occur (2) there will be no more floods in the major rivers and (3) an additional 30,000 MW of hydropower will be generated.

Coordination in aquifer usage: There is an urgent need for coordination among users for aquifers. There should be laws and contracts for sharing of aquifers. Groundwater aquifer mapping has started only recently in India which is a welcome step.

River basin authority: There should be a River Basin Authority for sharing information among states since most of the rivers in India pass through different states.

Coordinated efforts among states for management of groundwater at a localized level.

Community-level management: At the village level, there can be decentralized management of water at the community level.

Charging money for efficient use of water (like electricity). For example- Water ATMs at Marathwada provide water @25 paisa per litre a day.

Good Cultivation practices:

  • Changing the cropping pattern, crop diversification and encouraging water use efficiency in agriculture by moving towards food crops from cash crops.
  • Innovative farming practices like precision farming , zero budget natural farming , etc. could be employed for efficient water utilisation.

Incentive-based water conservation in rural parts of the water-stressed regions is another solution.

  • For example, if a particular level of groundwater level is maintained, higher MSP can be provided to the farmers of that region.
  • MSP can also be provided based on crop’s water usage = Crops that consume a high amount of water will get less MSP.

Way forward

India is not a water deficit country, but due to severe neglect and lack of monitoring of water resource development projects, many regions in the country face water stress from time to time. Therefore balancing water demand with available supply is the need of the hour for future economic growth and development as well as for the sustenance of human life.

New National Water Policy (NWP)

In November 2019, the Ministry of Jal Shakti had set up a committee to draft the new National Water Policy (NWP). This was the first time that the government asked a committee of independent experts to draft the policy.

Highlights of NWP

1) demand-side: diversification of public procurement operations.

  • Irrigation utilizes 80-90% of India’s water , most of which is used by rice, wheat, and sugarcane.
  • Therefore, crop diversification is the single most crucial step in addressing India’s water crisis.
  • The policy recommends diversifying public procurement operations to include Nutri-cereals, pulses, and oilseeds.
  • This would incentivize farmers to diversify their cropping patterns, resulting in huge savings of water.

2) Reduce-Recycle-Reuse

  • Reduce-Recycle-Reuse has been suggested as the basic mantra of integrated urban water supply and wastewater management, with the treatment of sewage and eco-restoration of urban river stretches, as far as possible via decentralised wastewater management.
  • All non-potable use like flushing, fire protection, vehicle washing should mandatorily shift to treated wastewater.

3) Supply-side measure: Using technology to use stored water in dams

  • Within supply-side options, the NWP points to trillions of litres stored in big dams, that are still not reaching farmers.
  • NWP recommends how the irrigated areas could be considerably expanded at very low cost by using pressurised closed conveyance pipelines, in addition to Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)  systems and pressurised micro-irrigation.

4) Supply of water through “nature-based solutions”

  • The NWP places major importance on the supply of water via “nature-based solutions” like the rejuvenation of catchment areas, to be incentivised through compensation for ecosystem services.
  • Specially curated “blue-green infrastructure” like rain gardens and bio-swales, restored rivers with wet meadows, wetlands constructed for bio-remediation, urban parks, permeable pavements, green roofs etc are suggested for urban areas.

5) Sustainable and equitable management of groundwater

  • Information on  aquifer boundaries , water storage capacities and flows provided in a user-friendly manner to stakeholders, assigned as custodians of their aquifers, would allow them to create protocols for effective management of groundwater.

6) Rights of Rivers

  • The NWP accords river protection and revitalisation prior and primary importance.
  • Steps to restore river flows include: Re-vegetation of catchments, regulation of groundwater extraction, river-bed pumping and mining of sand and boulders.
  • The NWP outlines a process to draft a  Rights of Rivers Act,  including their right to flow, to meander and to meet the sea.

7) Emphasis on water quality

  • The new NWP considers water quality as the most serious un-addressed issue in India today.
  • It proposes that every water ministry, at the Centre and states,  include a water quality department.
  • The policy advocates adoption of state-of-the-art, low-cost, low-energy, eco-sensitive  technologies for sewage treatment.
  • Widespread use of  reverse osmosis has led to huge water wastage  and adverse impact on water quality.
  • The policy wants  RO units to be discouraged  if the total dissolved solids count in water is less than 500mg/L.
  • It suggests a  task force on emerging water contaminants  to better understand and tackle the threats they are likely to pose.

8) Reforming governance of water

  • The policy makes radical proposals for improving the governance of water, which suffers from three kinds of issues: That between irrigation and drinking water, surface and groundwater, as also water and wastewater.
  • Government departments, working in silos, have generally dealt with just one side of these binaries.
  • Dealing with drinking water and irrigation in silos has meant that aquifers providing assured sources of drinking water dry up because the same aquifers are used for irrigation, which consumes much more water.
  • And when  water and wastewater are separated in planning,  the result is a fall in water quality.

9) Creation of National Water Commission

  • The NWP also suggests the creation of a unified multi-disciplinary, multi-stakeholder National Water Commission (NWC), which would become an exemplar for states to follow.
  • Governments should build enduring  partnerships with primary stakeholders of water , who must become an integral part of the NWC and its counterparts in the states.

How Gujarat transformed from Water-deficit state to surplus state?

  • The Gujarat government created the state-level Bhaskaracharya Institute for Space Applications and Geoinformatics (BISAG) to aid in the supply of services and solutions for the deployment of map-based GeoSpatial Information Systems.
  • Micro-level check dams.
  • Macro-level projects particularly in the Saurashtra, Kutch, and North Gujarat areas.
  • Gujarat launched the Kutch branch canal from the Narmada Main canal, which helps provide water to the most distant parts.
  • Sujalam Sufalam Yojana: to irrigate the areas of North Gujarat.
  • The SAUNI Yojana (Saurashtra Narmada Avtaran Irrigation Yojana), which means literally “reincarnation of the Narmada River in the region,” was thus introduced.
  • Administrative and Governance reforms.

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Excellent essay indeed!

Komal

Great explanation.

Vivek

worth a praise! well done :)

Garlapati Ravi Kumar

Wish you could mention the references for all the statistics and facts.

Rafiya

Please add features to include this article in PDF.

REY

Where are effects🙄

Santhosh

Haven’t you seen the impacts heading in this article?

XYZ

Great explanation and essay. This is exactly what I have been searching for.

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ScienceDaily

The global clean water crisis looms large

Water scarcity will intensify with climate and socioeconomic change, disproportionately impacting populations located in the Global South. So concludes a new Utrecht University article published in Nature Climate Change on 23 May 2024, which used a state-of-the-art global water quantity and quality model to estimate clean water scarcity until the end of the century.

Humans require clean water for drinking and sanitation purposes, but also for the production of food, energy and manufactured goods. As communities and policymakers grapple with water scarcity issues on the ground, researchers at Utrecht University aim to shed light on the escalating global clean water crisis.

Current and future water scarcity

Using simulations from a state-of-the-art water quantity and quality model, the authors assess present-day and future global water scarcity. "Climate change and socioeconomic developments have multi-faceted impacts on the availability and quality of, and demands for, water resources in the future," says lead author Dr. Edward Jones. "Changes in these three aspects are crucial for evaluating future water scarcity."

The study estimates that 55% of the global population currently lives in areas that experience a lack of clean water in at least one month per year. "By the end of the century, this may be as high as 66%," remarks Jones.

Strong regional differences in future water scarcity

While global water scarcity is projected to intensify in the future, both the changes and impacts will not occur equally across all world regions. Future increases in water scarcity in Western Europe and North America, for example, are concentrated in just a few months of the year -- predominantly driven by water quantity aspects. Conversely, water scarcity increases in developing countries are typically more widespread in space and persist for a larger portion of the year.

Jones remarks, "Increases in future exposure are largest in the Global South. These are typically driven by a combination of rapid population and economic growth, climate change and deteriorating water quality."

Quality: the invisible part of water scarcity

Water quality -- despite being crucial for safe water use -- remains an under-represented component of water scarcity assessments. "Previous assessments still predominantly focus on water quantity aspects only," explains Jones. "Yet, the safe use of water also depends on the quality."

Therefore, a key aim of this study was also to normalise the inclusion of water quality in water scarcity assessments -- and in the design of management strategies for alleviating water scarcity.

Jones concludes, "The lack of clean water presents a systemic risk to both humans and ecosystems, which is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore. Our work highlights that, alongside substantially reducing our water demands, we must place an equally strong focus on eliminating water pollution in order to turn the tide on the global water crisis."

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Materials provided by Utrecht University . Note: Content may be edited for style and length.

Journal Reference :

  • Edward R. Jones, Marc F. P. Bierkens, Michelle T. H. van Vliet. Current and future global water scarcity intensifies when accounting for surface water quality . Nature Climate Change , 2024; DOI: 10.1038/s41558-024-02007-0

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essay for scarcity of water

Water Scarcity Part 1: Cause and Casualty

How water stress is impacting business and supply chains as global temperatures soar.

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This Spotlight article — the first in a three-part series — considers the key drivers of water scarcity and its direct and indirect impact on business and society.

Executive summary

Humans have successfully harnessed many of the world's natural waterways for millennia, for irrigation and to support the growth of civilizations. But today, many of these vital water tables, rivers, lakes, and aquifers are drying up.

Demand for water is projected to outstrip supply by 40% by 2030, driven by macrotrends such as population growth, urbanization and climate change.

The tussle over rights to water is particularly acute in developing nations where supplies are finite.

Many industries are vulnerable to water scarcity, while also directly contributing to the depletion of freshwater resources.

  • Building resilience will require sustainable water management approaches, strategic partnerships and investment.
  • Demand for water is set to outstrip supply by 40% by 2030. 1 Population growth, urbanization and climate change are among the drivers.
  • Currently, water scarcity and poor sanitation cost the global economy $260 billion a year. 2
  • Many industry sectors are vulnerable to water stress, while also directly contributing to the depletion of freshwater resources.
  • The tussle over rights to channel water away from communities to agriculture and construction projects is a growing source of social unrest.
  • It's not just drought-prone regions that are waking up to the realities of water scarcity. There are implications across the value chain that impact an organization's total water footprint.

Waiting for monsoon

It's March in Bengaluru, and many trees lining the thronging highway that links Kempegowda International Airport to the central business district are dusty and brown in the dry 35°C (95°F) heat. The local government is urging migrant workers to leave the city and residents to use water sparingly to alleviate the drinking water crisis.

The once lush garden city faces a severe and prolonged drought, exacerbated by a weak monsoon in 2023. All around are signs of a construction boom, which is reducing Bengaluru's ability to replenish its water table. Last year, farmers took part in a number of strikes over access to water from the Cauvery River system and its reservoirs, which are experiencing a five-year low.

The strain is palpable. A population of over 14 million, continued urbanization and crop cultivation in Karnataka and neighboring Tamil Nadu are all competing for one essential resource: Water.

Water scarcity is a global crisis impacting communities, businesses and supply chains. In some regions, the pressures are so great they are creating energy blackouts and involuntary migration, and spilling over into social unrest.

"In parts of North Africa, there have been a number of consecutive drought years, which we have never seen before," says Antoine Bavandi, executive director, head of Public/Private Solutions, Gallagher Re.

"It's such an extreme and prolonged drought the consequences are disrupting the entire economy, including many livelihoods within the agricultural sector. The little water that is still available is being diverted from irrigated agriculture to urban centers, resulting in waves of migration."

Water stress: How did we get here?

Humans have successfully harnessed many of the world's natural waterways for millennia. Ancient Egyptians and Romans successfully used sophisticated irrigation and aqueducts to support the growth of civilizations. But today, many valuable water tables, rivers, lakes and aquifers are drying up.

According to the United Nations (UN), demand for water is projected to outstrip supply by 40% by 2030. 3 It warns that macro trends, such as population growth, urbanization and climate change, are contributing to severe water stress.

Currently, water scarcity and poor sanitation cost the global economy an estimated $260 billion a year. 4

The El Nino effect

Many parts of the world are experiencing more frequent and extreme heatwaves and droughts because of the climate crisis. Natural cycles, such as El Nino, are further contributing to climate extremes.

In Mexico City, officials warn that Day Zero could be looming, when the water system can no longer support its 22 million residents, forcing individuals to queue for rations. Day Zero could come as soon as June 26, 2024 and last until September 2024, as many parts of the country suffer extreme drought. 5

"You are always going to have these pendulum swings between El Nino and La Nina phases," says Steve Bowen, chief science officer at Gallagher Re. "Taking this into account, we can expect more extreme weather events in the future due to climate change. This has implications for food availability, harvests, shipping channels and overall circulation patterns."

"Climate risk goes much deeper than the surface," he adds. "The downstream implications can be significant and lead to difficulties from a humanitarian standpoint."

According to Gallagher Re, below-average rainfall has worsened drought conditions in many parts of the world over the past 12 months — including the highly vulnerable regions of south-central Africa last year, where there was an ongoing crisis for local communities. 6

In Asia, exceptional drought conditions were observed in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, with saltwater intrusion in the Mekong Delta contaminating the water supplies that communities and farmers rely upon in these countries.

Freshwater contamination

Pollution contributes to water stress by rendering freshwater supplies unsafe and unusable. Around 80% of wastewater globally is estimated to be discharged without being treated and/or reused, a figure that rises to 90% in developing countries. 7

Rapid urbanization and the intensification of farming are among the practices contaminating waterways and aggravating water scarcity issues. 8 Meanwhile, saltwater intrusion into rivers and groundwater is becoming more commonplace due to changes in rainfall patterns and the increased frequency and severity of droughts.

Last summer, a state of emergency was declared in New Orleans, Louisiana, as saltwater from the Gulf of Mexico made its way up the Mississippi towards the southern US city. 9 As river levels dropped, seawater moved upstream, threatening the city's main source of fresh drinking water.

Industries adapt to new normal of water stress

Many industry sectors are vulnerable to water stress while also directly contributing to the depletion of freshwater resources.

It's not just drought-prone regions that are waking up to the realities of water scarcity. There are implications across the value chain — encompassing raw materials, suppliers, direct operations and product use — which impact an organization's total water footprint.

Among the top exposures to industries as a result of water stress are:

  • Business interruption, contingent business interruption and supply chain disruption;
  • Environmental liability;
  • Social unrest and geopolitical risk;
  • Inflation and higher operational costs;
  • Reputation and brand risk; and
  • Stakeholder and regulatory pressures.

"I've worked with a number of manufacturers which rely upon the availability of water for their production," says Hugh Morris, Risk Management Consultant team leader, Risk Management Solutions, Gallagher UK.

"We have seen companies install large water tanks so that they do have some contingency, if there is a mains break, for instance. It's one of those issues where companies have to think about how they keep their facilities operational if there isn't a reliable supply of water," he adds.

"It's impractical for companies with a heavy reliance on process water to just tanker it in, because of the volume required in any sort of manufacturing process and the costs involved. With boreholes and natural springs, the water table may drop and then that becomes an issue."

The UK experienced one of its wettest winters on record in 2023/2024, yet some local councils are warning of water use restrictions come the summer. 10

The combination of hotter, drier summers, pollution and the inability to capture excess water during wetter months due to chronic underinvestment in wastewater infrastructure are some of the factors at play.

To increase resilience in the face of a changing climate, the UK Environment Agency is proposing the development of desalination schemes, in addition to reservoirs and water recycling schemes, over the next 25 years. Without it, the country risks facing a shortfall of five billion liters of water per day by 2050. 11

Ripples across the supply chain

There are direct and indirect impacts to businesses arising from water shortages. Some of the secondary challenges relating to water shortages include disruptions to supply chains, heightened energy and food insecurity and higher operational costs.

In some parts of the world, including Brazil and China, energy blackouts have become more prevalent during years of drought. As reservoirs dry up, hydroelectricity plants are unable to operate.

"A lot of UK businesses have products, components and materials supplied from elsewhere in the world," says Morris of Gallagher UK. "We've started to see those organizations looking a little bit more carefully at their supply chain in terms of the global issues that could impact their suppliers."

He continues, "It's important not just to think about who your suppliers are from the point of view of their financial viability, quality control and exposure to natural perils, for instance, but also if they will continue to be viable if there are water scarcity problems."

In a world of growing climate extremes, too little and too much water can disrupt global trade. During the first quarter of 2024, drought caused marine bottlenecks in the Panama Canal, as record low water levels resulting in restrictions on daily crossings. 12

Too much water can also be an issue for transportation and logistics, resulting in floods and river currents that are too strong for vessels to navigate safely.

"This variability in water availability has implications for supply chains, energy delivery, health and other areas," says Gallagher Re's Bowen. "It can lead to higher inflation and increased costs for labor supply. Climate risk affects various sectors and has cyclical effects. It puts financial pressure on businesses and that gets passed down to consumers."

The politics of water

A single issue rarely causes political instability; however, water scarcity can be a contributing factor. As water stress becomes more prevalent, businesses are likely to see more disruption. Community strikes in Bengaluru last year are just one example.

The tussle over rights to channel water towards construction and urban projects remains controversial. This tension is particularly acute in developing nations where water supplies are finite and the needs of communities aren't always a priority.

"There are so many issues around industry and land use, where we are seeing population growth, and there is a significant risk of not having enough drinking water," notes Bowen.

In water-stressed regions, disputes over access to water have even given rise to interstate conflicts. In the Middle East, just 1% of the world's freshwater is shared among 5% of the global population, with long-standing disputes stemming from access rights to the Euphrates and Tigris rivers. 13

The World Economic Forum warns that "intensifying competition for resources could spark disputes over dwindling freshwater sources" on a domestic level, while internationally, "changes to agricultural production and water availability could alter global trade patterns and alliances." 14

Conclusion: Time to decouple

Based on current trends, governments will need to spend $200 billion a year to meet the water needs of society and industry. However, most countries have a mixed track record in managing their water resources.

The UN Environment Programme warns that more must be done to decouple water use from economic growth to stave off the looming crisis. 15 In this context, decoupling means reducing the use of water per unit of economic activity.

There are a number of strategies for reducing water use in heavy industry. In sectors such as energy and manufacturing, for instance, more efficient use of water in heating and cooling processes and in the transportation of goods can make a big difference to an organization's water footprint.

In part 2 of the series, we will look in more depth at the impact of water scarcity across five key industry sectors. Part 3 considers the essential role of risk mitigation and insurance solutions as businesses adapt to the new normal and build resilience for the future.

1 " Global Freshwater Demand Will Exceed Supply 40% by 2030, Experts Warn ," World Economic Forum , 22 Mar 2023.

2 " Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene — 2021 Priorities ," UNICEF , 28 Apr 2021. PDF file.

3 " Half the World to Face Severe Water Stress by 2030 Unless Water Use is "Decoupled" from Economic Growth, Says International Resource Panel ," UN Environment Programme , 21 Mar 2016.

4 " The Water Crisis ," Water.org , accessed 17 May 2024.

5 " Monitor de Sequía en México ," Gobierno de Mexico, 3 May 2024.

6 " Q1 2024 Gallagher Re Natural Catastrophe and Climate Report ," Gallagher Re, 17 Apr 2024. PDF file.

7 " Wastewater A Resource that Can Pay Dividends for People, the Environment, and Economies, Says World Bank ," The World Bank , 19 Mar 2020.

8 Wang, Mengru et al. " A Triple Increase in Global River Basins With Water Scarcity Due to Future Pollution ," Nature Communications , 6 Feb 2024.

9 Davis, Darreonna. " What Is Saltwater Intrusion? Gulf of Mexico Invading Louisiana's Drinking Water as Drought Drains Mississippi River ," Forbes , 27 Sept 2023.

10 Horton, Helena. " UK at Risk of Summer Water Shortages and Hosepipe Bans, Scientists Warn ," The Guardian , 1 Apr 2024.

11 " A Summary of England's Revised Draft Regional and Water Resources Management Plans ," GOV.UK, 21 Mar 2024.

12 Giraldo, Marion. " Panama Canal Drought Could Threaten Supply Chain, S&P Says ," Reuters , 4 Apr 2024.

13 Alaaldin, Ranj. " Climate Change May Devastate the Middle East. Here's How Governments Should Tackle It ," Brookings, 14 Mar 2022.

14 Zahidi, Saadia. " The Global Risks Report 2024 19th Edition ," World Economic Forum , Jan 2024. PDF file.

15 " Options for Decoupling Economic Growth from Water Use and Water Pollution ," UN Environment Programme , 2015. PDF download.

CONDITIONS AND LIMITATIONS Gallagher's global operations, including a network of correspondent brokers and consultants, offers client-service capabilities in more than 130 countries around the world. This report and supporting information is not intended to provide legal or financial advice and reflects our understanding as of May 2024. It should not be regarded as a comprehensive statement of the law and/or market practice in the regions covered. You should not act upon information in this publication nor determine not to act, without first seeking specific legal and/or specialist insurance and risk management expertise. Should you require advice about your specific insurance arrangements or claim circumstances, please contact your Gallagher account representative.

© 2024 Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

Essay on Water for Students and Children

500+ words essay on water.

Water is one of the most important substances for life on earth to function. It is equally important for humans as well as animals. Water does not merely help us survive, but it is significant for our day to day functioning. It has numerous uses when we come to think about it. Majority of our earth is covered with water itself, but, not all of it is safe for consumption. Therefore, it makes it essential for us to utilize this transparent substance chemical wisely. Moreover, if we look at the shortage of water happening in our country, it makes it all the more important to conserve it immediately.

essay on water

Uses of Water

As we have already said that water has numerous uses, we will see where it is used. This part will most importantly help us realize the importance of water . It will make humans aware of what absence of water in the following areas can do to human life. As India’s main occupation is agriculture, water is exhaustively used here. Irrigation and cattle rearing requires a lot of water. Thus, a lot of farmers’ livelihood depends on it.

Further, industries use water for various purposes. It comes in handy when cooling, manufacturing and transporting several goods. For instance, thermal power plants consume quite a substantial amount of water for their running.

Furthermore, the domestic use of water cannot be left behind. In the day to day life of the common man, water plays a vital role. That is to say, from drinking water to washing utensils, we need water every step of the way.

After that, plants need water to survive and make food. It is one of the main elements which help them grow. Hence, water is extremely important for humans, animals, and plants to survive .

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Do not Waste Water

While water is quite essential and yet so scarce, however, people fail to realize this fact. They waste water with little or no care for the results of this activity. There are various ways in which one can avoid wasting water . To begin with, all households must get their leaking taps checked. They should fix them immediately as every drop is precious.

Similarly, we must choose buckets instead of showers for bathing. This is a very debatable topic and it needs to be settled. Showers waste a lot of water, so people must prefer buckets. This particular habit is quite commonly found in most of the households. People do not turn off their taps while brushing their teeth and washing utensils. Always remember to keep the tap off when doing so.

In addition, encourage rainwater harvesting system in all homes. This can help conserve water like never before.

In short, water is essential for the survival of mankind. But, it is, unfortunately, being waster rapidly. Every citizen and government must come together to tackle this issue. Governments must ensure all areas get water equally. On the other hand, citizens must keep in mind to use it wisely and not waste it unnecessarily.

FAQs on Water

Q.1 State the importance of water.

A.1 Water is of the utmost importance for human and animal life. It gives us water to drink. It also comes in great use for farmers and industries. Even common man requires water for various purposes like drinking, cleaning, bathing and more.

Q.2 List the ways to avoid wastage of water.

A.2 Everyone must avoid wasting water. We can do so by fixing our leaking taps, avoiding showers for bathing, and turning off taps when brushing. Furthermore, we can adopt rainwater harvesting system to conserve water.

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  1. Water Scarcity Essay for Students in English

    Physical water scarcity is the result of regions' demand outpacing the limited water resources found in that location. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, about 1.2 billion people live in areas of physical scarcity and many of these people live in arid or semi-arid regions.

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    Water Scarcity Essay: Water scarcity is a fundamental issue faced by almost half of the population across the world. Like global warming and climate change, water scarcity affects human lives in different ways. In some places, it disrupts smooth living. In other parts of the world, it makes the existence of human life difficult.

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    There are two general types of water scarcity: physical and economic. Physical, or absolute, water scarcity is the result of a region's demand outpacing the limited water resources found there. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, around 1.2 billion people live in areas of physical scarcity; many of these people live in arid or semi-arid regions.

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    500+ Words Essay on Water Scarcity Essay. Water is the basic necessity of every human being. But, water scarcity is a major issue that is rising very rapidly in modern-day India. The problem has become so severe that in many states the groundwater has almost dried up and people have to depend on water supply from other sources. In addition ...

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    Significant population growth with rapid economic development have led to water scarcity problems around the world. Currently, most of the simple water scarcity assessment methods only refer to per capita water use, failing to take into account actual water availability and actual human domestic water use. Therefore, we have developed a simple and practical method to assess water scarcity ...

  28. Water Scarcity Part 1: Cause and Casualty

    Sources. 1 "Global Freshwater Demand Will Exceed Supply 40% by 2030, Experts Warn," World Economic Forum, 22 Mar 2023.. 2 "Universal Access to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene — 2021 Priorities," UNICEF, 28 Apr 2021.PDF file. 3 "Half the World to Face Severe Water Stress by 2030 Unless Water Use is "Decoupled" from Economic Growth, Says International Resource Panel," UN Environment Programme ...

  29. Essay on Water for Students and Children

    A.1 Water is of the utmost importance for human and animal life. It gives us water to drink. It also comes in great use for farmers and industries. Even common man requires water for various purposes like drinking, cleaning, bathing and more. Q.2 List the ways to avoid wastage of water.

  30. The Extent to Which the Available Water Resources in Upper Egypt ...

    Water scarcity is a global issue affecting 1.5 to 2.5 billion people living in exposed areas. Projections indicate a continuous increase, with the number expected to reach up to 3 billion at 2 °C and 4 billion at 4 °C by 2050 . Socioeconomic factors, including population growth and food consumption patterns, also contribute to water scarcity.