Water abundance and scarcity

The water issue is slowly starting to permeate many of our discussions in our classes. From a basic standpoint, we know that Canada has about 20 percent of the world's fresh water resources. This is plentiful considering our population of 33 million or so. However, be aware that only 9 percent of this amount is actually renewable water. A lot of the freshwater found within this country lies in the great lakes, rivers and streams. Many of the rivers and streams however, divert and carry water upstream to the north, away from Canada's dense southern population. Nonetheless, we are still managing our water resources adequately but must plan rationally for future supply.

About 80 countries in the world face impending shortages in their quantity and/or quality of their water supply. Contrary to popular belief, the United States is joining this list of water scarce countries. Urbanization, population demand, disease, poverty and rapid development are all exacerbating water supply conditions for these countries. The United States Southwest region for example, has put tremendous stress and pressure on the Colorado River leading to massive shortages in supply. Irrigation among other things, contributes to this problem of excessive water consumption.

Our blog will feature more information about the salience of water conservation and how conserving this precious resource will be key for future generations. To start with brief discussion of water usage in the US southwest, all states should emulate Arizona's water limitation system. Ostensibly, this state has imposed restrictions on water usage for households; this includes taking showers less frequently and cutting down irrigation for agriculture. In order to move forward and work towards a binding solution to the water crisis, states in the southwest must impose similar restrictions and endeavor to recycle their water resources at all costs. Priorities must be set; minimize the amount of water used for golf courses and the manufacturing sector, and consider conservation techniques like drip irrigation and state controlled water allocation. Provide water on a per demand basis, and consider the merits of imposing a cost for over-use and/or irresponsible use. More discussion will follow on the water crisis. Please feel free to contribute.