- Rising global temperatures are causing glaciers and snowpacks to melt, reducing water availability in rivers, lakes, and aquifers.
- Altered precipitation patterns lead to more extreme weather events, including droughts, floods, and storms, further disrupting water supplies.
2. Pollution:
- Industrial waste, agricultural runoff, sewage, and other pollutants contaminate water sources, making them unsafe for drinking, swimming, or fishing.
- Chemical contamination can also harm aquatic ecosystems and contribute to biodiversity loss.
3. Overuse and Inefficient Use:
- Over-extraction of groundwater for irrigation, industrial use, or drinking can deplete aquifers, leading to land subsidence and saltwater intrusion.
- Inefficient irrigation practices and leaky infrastructure also contribute to water wastage.
4. Deforestation:
- Trees play a crucial role in the water cycle by regulating rainfall, absorbing water into the ground, and preventing soil erosion. Deforestation reduces the water retention capacity of the soil, leading to increased runoff and decreased groundwater recharge.
5. Population Growth:
- As the global population grows, so does the demand for water. This can strain existing water resources and lead to conflicts over water rights and allocation.
6. Urbanization:
- Urbanization leads to increased impervious surfaces that prevent water from seeping into the ground, resulting in more runoff and reduced groundwater recharge.
7. Agricultural Practices:
- Certain agricultural practices, such as water-intensive irrigation, can contribute to water scarcity, especially in arid and semi-arid regions.
8. Industrial Water Use:
- Industries such as manufacturing and mining require significant amounts of water, potentially competing with other water users and straining water resources.