Untitled Quiz

The Importance of Water

• Water is essential for all living things; it comprises the majority of organisms' bodies
• Water is crucial for various ecosystems and serves as a habitat for countless species
• Water plays a vital role in regulating the Earth's climate
• Water shapes the Earth's surface through processes like erosion and deposition
• Water helps dilute and degrade wastes, contributing to environmental purification

Water Use

• Most uses, including agriculture, industry, and households, rely on freshwater
• 97% of Earth's water is saltwater, with only 3% being freshwater
• Two-thirds of freshwater exists as ice in glaciers and polar ice caps
• The remaining freshwater is found underground and a negligible amount is present on land or in the air

Agricultural Use

• Agriculture accounts for 69% of global water consumption, particularly in agricultural economies like India
• By 2050, the global water demand for agriculture is projected to increase by an additional 19% due to irrigation needs
• Increasing irrigation needs are likely to put immense pressure on existing water storage

Industrial Use

• Water is crucial for industries, serving as a raw material, coolant, solvent, transport agent, and energy source
• Manufacturing industries are major water consumers, with paper and allied products, chemicals, and primary metals being significant users
• Industries globally consume around 19% of total water usage

Domestic Use

• Domestic water use includes drinking, cleaning, personal hygiene, gardening, cooking, and washing
• Population growth and urbanization have led to increased demand for water supply systems
• Domestic water usage accounts for around 12% of global water consumption

Use for Hydropower

• Hydropower, generated from water, is a renewable source of electricity
• It accounts for approximately 16% of global electricity generation
• Leading hydropower producing countries include China, the US, Brazil, Canada, India, and Russia

Use for Navigation and Recreation

• Waterways are used for transportation of goods, particularly agricultural and commercial products
• Water also serves recreational purposes such as boating, swimming, and other activities
• Balancing recreational activities with public health and water quality is essential, particularly for drinking water sources