Chapter 4 - Water conservation for environmental sustainability

Abstract

Water forms are very essential components for living organisms. Fresh water is necessary for every field, like agricultural crops, livestock, and industries, required to create and strengthen the ecosystem as all forms of life depend on it. Water has crucial importance because it is required in all metabolic processes necessary for growth and development. Although the ocean covers 97% of the earth, fresh water is only 3% which is suitable for living beings, including humans. In recent years, there has been a serious threat to the water table due to increased population, industrialization, urbanization, global warming, natural calamities, and overusage. The world population is expected to increase by about 9.4 billion by 2050, which will put more stress on water resources. With the increased demand for fresh water, humans must take good care of water resources, usage practices, and sustainable management. Sustainability can be achieved by decreasing resource inputs and waste outputs without altering the socioeconomic need of the present as well as the future generation. One of the goals of 17 sustainable development goals also focuses on the importance of safe and affordable drinking water access to all. This chapter intends to show beneficial water uses, water wastage, water losses, efficient water use, water conservation programs, and sustainable management.