The United Nations University released a report on 20 January, based on a peer‑reviewed paper from its Institute for Water, Environment and Health (INWEH). The report defines "water bankruptcy" as persistent over‑withdrawal of surface and groundwater beyond renewable inflows and safe limits, and warns many systems can no longer recover to their historical levels.
It gives several figures: billions lack safe drinking water and nearly half the global population faces severe water scarcity for at least part of the year. Since the early 1990s, water levels have fallen in more than half of the world’s large lakes. Around half of domestic water and over forty per cent of irrigation now come from groundwater, while many major aquifers show long‑term decline.
The report names causes such as long‑term groundwater depletion, land subsidence, loss of storage, weak governance, pollution and rising demand from agriculture and fast‑growing cities. It warns of less reliable water, higher costs, hunger, forced migration and social tension. Recommendations include improving water efficiency, modernising irrigation, drought planning, using treated wastewater and fair finance for affected communities.
Difficult words
- water bankruptcy — long-term water use beyond safe or renewable limits
- inflow — water that enters a system or sourceinflows
- aquifer — underground rock layer that stores groundwateraquifers
- depletion — gradual reduction in a resource or supply
- subsidence — sinking of land surface over time
- scarcity — lack of enough water for people
- irrigation — supplying water to crops for growth
- governance — system of rules and management for resources
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Which of the report's causes do you think is most important in your area, and why?
- What water-saving methods could households or farms use from the report's recommendations?
- How might falling groundwater and higher water costs affect a community you know?
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