water

• 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.