Global water crisis leaves half of world food production at risk in next 25 year
A Global Commission report warns that over half of food production is at risk due to a water crisis, with demand for fresh water expected to exceed supply by 40% by 2030.
Read original article
A recent report from the Global Commission on the Economics of Water warns that over half of the world's food production is at risk within the next 25 years due to a worsening global water crisis. Currently, more than 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water, and this number is expected to rise as climate change exacerbates water scarcity. The report highlights that demand for fresh water will exceed supply by 40% by 2030, driven by unsustainable water management and environmental degradation. It emphasizes the need for urgent action to conserve water resources and protect ecosystems that support fresh water. The interconnectedness of global water systems means that countries must cooperate on water management to ensure equitable access. The report also points out that harmful agricultural subsidies contribute to water mismanagement, disproportionately benefiting wealthier individuals and industries while leaving poorer communities at a disadvantage. The authors call for a reevaluation of water as a global common good and advocate for better-targeted subsidies and financial support for developing nations to improve their water systems and environmental health.
- Over half of global food production is at risk due to a water crisis.
- More than 2 billion people lack access to safe drinking water.
- Fresh water demand is projected to exceed supply by 40% by 2030.
- Current agricultural subsidies often lead to water mismanagement.
- Cooperation among countries is essential for effective water resource management.
Related
Food as You Know It Is About to Change
The modern food system faces a "food polycrisis" with rising hunger rates, increased food prices, and climate change impacting agricultural productivity. Urgent changes in practices and diets are necessary for future food security.
What happens to US food production if the groundwater runs out altogether?
The opinion piece highlights a groundwater crisis in California's Central Valley, stressing the need for a national water policy to prevent severe food and water insecurity due to overuse and climate change.
Parts of Texas 'out of water' as the rest dries out, ag commissioner says
Texas is facing a severe water crisis, especially in the Rio Grande Valley, with an 80% drop in tomato production. $80 billion is needed for infrastructure, amid political challenges.
Can eating less beef and dairy help save the Colorado River?
Reducing beef and dairy consumption could alleviate the Colorado River water crisis, where livestock feed uses nearly half of the water, prompting farmers to adopt less water-intensive crops.
Earth's 'vital signs' show humanity's future in balance, say climate experts
A report by climate experts reveals alarming levels of Earth's vital signs, with urgent action needed to address greenhouse gas emissions, population growth, and the risks of climate change.
0 commentsRelated
Food as You Know It Is About to Change
The modern food system faces a "food polycrisis" with rising hunger rates, increased food prices, and climate change impacting agricultural productivity. Urgent changes in practices and diets are necessary for future food security.
What happens to US food production if the groundwater runs out altogether?
The opinion piece highlights a groundwater crisis in California's Central Valley, stressing the need for a national water policy to prevent severe food and water insecurity due to overuse and climate change.
Parts of Texas 'out of water' as the rest dries out, ag commissioner says
Texas is facing a severe water crisis, especially in the Rio Grande Valley, with an 80% drop in tomato production. $80 billion is needed for infrastructure, amid political challenges.
Can eating less beef and dairy help save the Colorado River?
Reducing beef and dairy consumption could alleviate the Colorado River water crisis, where livestock feed uses nearly half of the water, prompting farmers to adopt less water-intensive crops.
Earth's 'vital signs' show humanity's future in balance, say climate experts
A report by climate experts reveals alarming levels of Earth's vital signs, with urgent action needed to address greenhouse gas emissions, population growth, and the risks of climate change.