"Humans are using more water than the planet can support, entering an era of global water bankruptcy, a new report from the United Nations warns. Almost 75 percent of the world's population now lives in countries that are experiencing significant water insecurity, according to the report. Rivers, lakes, wetlands and other water sources are already damaged beyond realistic prospects of full recovery, the report states."
"The impacts extend beyond drinking water, the report states. Kaveh Madani, director of the United Nations University Institute for Water, Environment and Health and author of the report, said at a press briefing on Tuesday that a functioning water system helps prevent biodiversity loss, fights climate change and supports national security. If you invest in water, you're investing in everything else, Madani said."
Human consumption of freshwater now exceeds Earth's capacity, creating a global water bankruptcy. Nearly 75 percent of the global population lives in countries facing significant water insecurity. Rivers, lakes, wetlands and other freshwater sources have been damaged beyond realistic prospects of full recovery. Humans are drawing on stored water in glaciers, wetlands and aquifers faster than natural replenishment. Water shortages affect more than drinking supply; functioning water systems prevent biodiversity loss, mitigate climate change, and support national security. Immediate action is required to establish more sustainable water systems and to adapt to a post-crisis reality as a starting point for recovery.
Read at www.scientificamerican.com
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