water

Cards (6)

  • what areas in the world have water surplus and water deficit?
    Regions with a water surplus include North America, Europe and parts of Asia. Other regions have a water deficit.
    (Regions with high rainfall usually have a water surplus. Areas with low rainfall, such as hot deserts, usually have a water deficit)
  • what's the reason for increasing water consumption?
    • rising population growth (more people = more water)
    • economic development (more developed = more water)
    • water footprint (direct + indirect water use)
  • what are the physical factors that affect water availability?
    Climate: Regions with high rainfall usually have surplus water. Drier climates have less water available
    Geology: Water falling on impermeable rock, such as clay, leads to it running over the surface as rivers. Permeable rock allows water to soak in and is available as groundwater
  • what are the impacts of water insecurity?
    • waterborne diseases and water pollution
    • food production
    • industrial output
    • potential for conflict
  • what are the strategies to increase water supply?
    • dams and reservoirs
    • diverting supplies and increasing storage
    • water transfers
    • desalination
  • what are the human factors that affect water availability?
    Pollution of supply: Rivers can be polluted by industry, especially in rapidly industrialising countries.
    Over-abstraction: Where more water is removed than is replaced means that the water source is not sustainable.
    Poverty: Clean water can be expensive and the poor may not be able to afford it.
    Limited Infrastructure: A lack of water pipes, pumps and sewage pipes, especially in LICs.