Water is essential for life as we know it, and access to it is imperative. However, water is becoming a commodity, and soon, water will be traded as a security on the stock market, as oil is currently.
With the advent of the Industrial Revolution, water became a commodity when humans began to use water in manufacturing. In response to this, countries and states enforced regulations on how much water could be used per person and created systems that ensure the safety and efficiency of water usage.
These regulations have been the cause of controversy in modern times as they are seen to stifle innovation and growth. The most notable of these controversies occurred in California in 2014 when people voted on “Proposition 1” to regulate water rights. Other factors like climate change also contribute to the scarcity of water around the globe. We can take action and safeguard water for future generations.
What Factors Influence Water Costs Around The World
In different parts of the world, the prices of water vary greatly. This is based on supply and demand and how much access people have to water in their area. Here are some common factors that affect the cost of water in different parts of the world.
Climate Change, Water Scarcity, and Global Warming
Climate change has greatly affected the supply of water all over the world. This has led to water shortages in some areas and increased water costs in others. In regions like California, some droughts have caused a spike in the price of water.
Hydraulic Fracturing
As the name suggests, hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, is a process that uses water to create permeable rock formations by which gas and oil can be extracted. Pressurized water and chemicals are blasted down drill holes deep in the earth to cause cracks in sedimentary rock. These cracks then provide access to natural gas or crude oil deposits. Millions of gallons of water can be used during the fracking of a single well, and many of the chemicals used are harmful to humans, yet they are absorbed by groundwater and cause harm to the environment.
Water Privatization
Many governments throughout the world have privatized water supplies for profit. This primarily aims to generate a revenue stream for governments, but in some cases, privatization has led to a rise in water prices.
Ways To Increase Water Supply
People are trying to save water in their everyday lives by being conscious of how much they use. Water is a precious resource and should be used wisely. There are a few ways to increase access to clean water for everyone.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is a straightforward process. It is achieved using an earthen or concrete tank with a sloping roof. The water then flows into them and down the slope where it’s collected in the tank. This water can be saved and used in the household. This is a straightforward, affordable option to conserve water.
Sustainable Agriculture Options
There are many sustainable agriculture options to help increase access to clean water. The first way is through building rain gardens. Rain gardens are developed with porous surfaces and plants to collect water during rainfall. The water then seeps into the ground, replenishing underground water sources. You can also do crop rotation. This is a process by which one crop is grown in a field for a specified period before switching to another type of crop. The alternating crops help the soil retain moisture and prevent the depletion of essential nutrients.
Impact Investing
When discussing impact investing, we think of methods of investing that will contribute to positive change. Water is something that everyone needs, so this form of investment is an excellent way to make an impact in your community. You can invest in clean water projects or use the money to build new water facilities. For example, if you’re a developer, you can help pay for developing a new rainwater harvesting system in a rural area.
Climate Change
Climate change is a major global issue. It can cause droughts and floods, which may lead to water shortages or contamination. Action needs to be taken to combat the effects of climate change. The first step is to reduce the world’s carbon emissions and make energy more efficient. Many renewable energy sources like wind and solar can be used instead of fossil fuels.
Conclusion
Water is essential for human survival. It plays a vital role in the growth and sustenance of life. With an increasing population and greater reliance on water, the water supply is becoming increasingly limited. The increased demand for water is also putting pressure on the environment and our health.
With current water technology, finding and accessing clean water is becoming more complex. However, there are ways to increase water security and make water management more efficient. This can be done through sustainable farming and urban engineering. By making small changes in your everyday life, you can make a big difference in the availability of clean water for everyone.
