Global Water Scarcity Reaches Crisis Levels: 25 Nations And Half Of World's Population Affected

A water scarcity crisis is sweeping the world, driven by factors like population growth, urbanization, climate change, and poor water management. The consequences are wide-ranging, affecting society and the environment.

According to the latest Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas, 25 nations, a quarter of the global population, are grappling with severe annual water stress. This issue is set to worsen, with projections indicating that nearly 60% of the population could face water stress by 2050.

By 2050, around 31% of global GDP, totaling $70 trillion, will be exposed to high water stress. India, Mexico, Egypt, and Turkey are set to account for over half of this exposure.

Countries like Bahrain, Cyprus, and Kuwait are already severely impacted. Middle East and North Africa are the hardest-hit regions, with 83% facing extreme water stress, followed by South Asia at 74%.

Samantha Kuzma, an Aqueduct data lead, emphasized the urgent need for better water management, stating that water, our vital resource, has been consistently mismanaged. The report underscores the necessity for collaboration between governments, communities, and businesses to ensure universal water security.

Feasible solutions exist, but political commitment and financial resources are key. In a world where water security is paramount, urgent actions are vital.