Water scarcity and water stress in the world
Even though it covers around two-thirds of the Earth's surface, water is often taken for granted. Despite this fact, only 2.5 percent of that water is fresh water suitable for drinking. As resources continue to dwindle, water scarcity or stress already affects 25 percent of the global population, leaving many without access to clean water. So, what is water scarcity and what are its main causes? Understanding the causes behind this critical issue, along with potential solutions, is crucial to preventing a global drinking water shortage and protecting our planet.
What is water stress? Definition and causes
Water stress occurs when the available freshwater resources are insufficient to meet the demand for water. According to the United Nations, this situation affects up to four billion people for at least one month each year. Water stress is defined as water consumption that exceeds available resources by 25 percent. A withdrawal rate of 10 percent is considered mild water stress, but extreme water stress affects a staggering one in four people globally.
The causes of water scarcity are varied and include:
Drinking water scarcity and water stress: Relevant statistics
One thing is unmistakably clear, access to clean water is a fundamental human right. However, statistics paint a troubling picture of global water scarcity:
30 %
of the European population experiences water shortages at some point each year
1.8 billion
people face daily challenges that threaten their health and lives due to inadequate water resources
771 million
people lack even the most basic access to clean drinking water
These figures highlight the existing water shortages, but the situation is further compounded by climate change, which contributes to extreme weather events and droughts. Additionally, both economic activities and physical consumption are driving the increase in water scarcity:
- Agriculture accounts for approximately 70 percent of the world's freshwater consumption.
- Worldwide per capita water consumption has doubled since 1930.
The problems and effects of water scarcity: Threatening our livelihoods
The problems caused by water scarcity and the negative effects of water shortages on health and human development, the environment, and society, are multifaceted:
- Health risks associated with water scarcity: Lack of access to clean water increases the risk of disease transmission via microorganisms such as amoebae, E. coli, protozoa, enterococci, legionella, and noroviruses. Additionally, other contaminants such as nitrate, microplastics, pharmaceutical residues, PFAS, and turbidity, can further compromise water quality and public health.
- Environmental effects of water stress: Water stress leads to the drying of soils, rivers, and lakes, as well as the lowering of groundwater levels and the loss of wetlands. These changes significantly contribute to land degradation, biodiversity loss, and the destruction of natural habitats, while also exacerbating climate change.
- Social challenges: Economic water scarcity intensifies pressure on food and water supplies, leading to significant negative social consequences and challenges to maintaining food security for some populations.
- Economic impact: Water scarcity contributes to crop failures in agriculture and production losses in industry. It also complicates energy supply in many regions, such as through hydropower plants, and can render tourism nonviable in certain areas.
One approach: Sustainable water management and fitration
How can we contribute to solving water scarcity? By focusing on sustainable water management and meticulous care of our water resources, we can address the challenges created by water scarcity and positively contribute to the future health of our planet.
How can we prevent water scarcity? Guidelines and legal frameworks
Regulations at international, European, and national levels aim to mitigate water stress and conserve our valuable water resources:
- EU drinking water directive: The updated directive mandates that member states conduct thorough assessments of water losses and, for the first time, develop strategies to reduce these losses. This directive applies to all water suppliers delivering at least 10,000 m³ of water per day or serving a population of at least 50,000 people.
- EU wastewater directive: By December 31, 2035, all wastewater treatment facilities in cities and municipalities with more than 100,000 residents are required to implement an advanced fourth treatment stage to further enhance water purification processes.
- UN Agenda 2030, SDG6: The 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to promote sustainable development by the year 2030. Goal 6 of the 2030 Agenda specifically focuses on water-related issues. The United Nations advocates for ensuring safe and affordable drinking water for all, improving water quality, restoring water-related ecosystems, and enhancing transboundary water management as critical steps toward achieving this goal.
Filtration: A key solution in combating water scarcity
Water filtration is a crucial process in water purification, playing a key role in wastewater treatment and providing clean drinking water. This process not only improves public health but also enhances resource efficiency and environmental protection.
To provide holistic solutions for water stress and scarcity, we have developed a range of filtration solutions specially tailored for a wide variety of applications:
With over 80 years of experience and an international presence in more than 80 locations worldwide, our customers and partners can trust us to collaboratively protect our water resources, and our planet.
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