Era of ‘global water bankruptcy’ is here, UN report says
Overuse and pollution must end urgently as no one knows when whole system might collapse, says expert
TL;DR
- The world is experiencing "global water bankruptcy" due to overuse and pollution.
- 75% of people live in countries classified as water-insecure.
- Groundwater aquifers are collapsing, causing land subsidence in many areas.
- Conflicts over water have risen sharply.
- Major rivers and lakes are shrinking or failing to reach the sea.
- The climate crisis is worsening water availability and predictability.
- About 70% of freshwater withdrawals are used for agriculture.
- Urgent action is needed to reset how water is protected and used, including reducing water withdrawal rights and transforming water-intensive sectors.
- Water bankruptcy is identified as a driver of fragility, displacement, and conflict.