Global water shortage affects more people

A new study shows: Up to 80% of the world’s population is affected by water shortages at times. Global water shortages affect more people than previous estimates suggested. For the first time, researchers have analyzed blue water (drinking water from lakes, rivers and groundwater), green water (rainwater in soils), and water quality together. The result shows that a quarter of the land area suffers from at least one form of water scarcity all year round. Over 60% of people worldwide are affected.

The situation is particularly critical in Asia, the Mediterranean region, and parts of Europe. In regions such as California and northern China, there is also a lack of clean drinking water. Rainwater for agriculture is also scarce there. Around 530 million people even live in areas that suffer from water shortages in all three dimensions.

🔧 What can help now: Depending on the region, targeted measures are needed. These range from more efficient water use and natural purification systems to recycling and adapted cultivation. The study provides a sound basis for local water management for the first time.

💡 Innovative approaches such as dry separation toilets can also help to conserve water resources. They relieve the burden on wastewater systems.

If you want to learn more about global water scarcity, stay curious, get connected and join us for a better resource use.

Source: https://www.scinexx.de/news/geowissen/globaler-wassermangel-ist-schwerwiegender-als-gedacht/

Photo: https://www.pexels.com/de-de/foto/wasser-bau-manner-wuste-17399217/