On 20 January, the United Nations University published a report saying the world faces "global water bankruptcy." The report uses the idea of long-term overuse of rivers and groundwater beyond what nature can replace.
Many people already lack safe drinking water and many regions have severe water shortage for part of the year. The report points to falling groundwater, shrinking lakes and lost wetlands. It says weak water management, pollution and growing demand from farming and cities push the problem. Experts call for better water use, modern irrigation and planning for droughts.
Difficult words
- bankruptcy — A state when a person or group has no money
- groundwater — Water that is under the earth's surface
- shortage — A situation with not enough of something
- wetlands — Land areas that are always or sometimes wet
- pollution — Harmful substances that make air or water dirty
- irrigation — Supplying water to land to grow crops
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you ever have water shortages where you live?
- What can people do to use water better in daily life?
- Have you seen water pollution near your home or town?
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