Seven hundred million people in the world are suffering because of water scarcity now. In the next six years, the number is expected to rise to 1.8 billion. And by 2050, two-thirds of the globe’s population will be living in water-stressed situations.
Water scarcity is not only a problem faced by developing nations. Even in a developed country like the United States, many cities are facing water shortages. The Colorado River, which supplies water to over 40 million people, is rapidly drying out.
New Mexico, California, Arizona, Colorado, and Nevada, states relying heavily on the Colorado River water supply, have been facing water shortages for the past few years.
This year, New Mexico is the most water-pressured state in the United States. Its condition is at par with that in countries like the United Arab Emirates in the Middle East and Eritrea in Africa, according to the World Resources Institute (WRI).
After New Mexico is California, which has been experiencing an extended drought since 2011. The water crisis in the Golden State has pushed the local government to set new standards for indoor and outdoor water use and efficiency for all Californians.
If rivers, lakes, and dams continue to dry out, the entire country will soon face water scarcity. Now more than ever, Americans need to conserve water and pursue a sustainable lifestyle; otherwise, all living creatures will gradually cease to exist on this planet.
There are several things you can do at home to save water, from changing your habits to using water-efficient fixtures. Learn about water conservation through this infographic.
