EQ3 The Water Cycle 3.3.19
EQ3; Examine why water insecurity occurs and why it is becoming a global issue for the 21st
century?
Secure water means that countries have a chance of economic development; for irrigation,
manufacturing, food, energy.
Water stress: demand exceeds availability. Less than 1700 m3 water per capita per annum
Water scarcity: less than 1000 m3 water per capita per annum. The physical scarcity means
that there's difficulty accessing water. Economic scarcity means that you can’t afford to
access water.
Water stress and scarcity become an increasing issue because of;
- Climate change; unreliable rainfall.
- Glacial water sources; reducing due to climate change.
- Unsustainable use; some supplies will decrease in quality and quantity.
- Demand will rise; due to population and economic growth.
The Physical Causes of Water Insecurity.
Climate variability:
- Melting the ice caps turns fresh water into sea water (has little direct effect on water
supply)
- Warming increases, the amount of water that the atmosphere can hold= more and
heavier rainfall which cools the air. Heavier rainfall leads to more rapid movement of
water, reducing the ability to store and use it
EQ3; Examine why water insecurity occurs and why it is becoming a global issue for the 21st
century?
Secure water means that countries have a chance of economic development; for irrigation,
manufacturing, food, energy.
Water stress: demand exceeds availability. Less than 1700 m3 water per capita per annum
Water scarcity: less than 1000 m3 water per capita per annum. The physical scarcity means
that there's difficulty accessing water. Economic scarcity means that you can’t afford to
access water.
Water stress and scarcity become an increasing issue because of;
- Climate change; unreliable rainfall.
- Glacial water sources; reducing due to climate change.
- Unsustainable use; some supplies will decrease in quality and quantity.
- Demand will rise; due to population and economic growth.
The Physical Causes of Water Insecurity.
Climate variability:
- Melting the ice caps turns fresh water into sea water (has little direct effect on water
supply)
- Warming increases, the amount of water that the atmosphere can hold= more and
heavier rainfall which cools the air. Heavier rainfall leads to more rapid movement of
water, reducing the ability to store and use it
