Off-Stream Water Uses in Agriculture and Industry

Off-Stream Uses of Water (ATIMDC)

• Agriculture: Essential for various farming activities.

  • Irrigation: Types include flood, sprinkler, and drip methods for watering crops.
  • Livestock: Used for watering and cleaning animals such as pigs and chickens.
  • Aquaculture: Water is crucial for raising fish and shrimp.

• Thermoelectric: Significant water consumption for generating electrical power; among the largest uses of water.

• Industrial: Water is vital for cooling machinery to prevent overheating during operations.

• Mining: Utilized in the extraction processes of minerals and natural resources.

• Domestic: Water serves household needs such as cooking, cleaning, and sanitation.

• Commercial: Employed in businesses, including restaurants and hospitality services.

In-Stream Uses of Water (HERN)

• Hydropower: Water flow is harnessed for energy production.
• Ecosystem: Supports biodiversity and natural habitats.
• Recreation: Activities like fishing, boating, and swimming rely on accessible water bodies.
• Navigation: Critical for transportation and trade routes via rivers and lakes.

Reasons for Fresh Water Shortage (PLGCR)

• Population Growth: Increasing demands for water resources as populations expand.
• Lack of Access to Clean Water: Many regions struggle with inadequate infrastructure for safe drinking water.
• Groundwater Depletion: Excessive extraction of groundwater is leading to resource scarcity.
• Climate Change/Global Warming: Alters water availability and distribution, exacerbating shortages.
• Shrinking Rivers and Lakes: Environmental changes result in reduced freshwater bodies.