Water

Abstract

The World Bank reports that 80 countries now have water shortages that threaten health and economies, while 40% of the world—more than 2 billion people—have no access to clean water or sanitation. In this context, we cannot expect water conflicts to always be amenably resolved. More than a dozen nations receive most of their water from rivers that cross borders of neighbouring countries which are viewed as hostile. A prime cause of global water concern is the ever-increasing world population. As populations grow, industrial, agricultural and individual water demands escalate. According to the World Bank, worldwide demand for water is doubling every twenty one years, more in some regions. Water supply cannot possibly keep pace with demand, as populations soar and cities explode.