The World Resources Institute (WRI) has released alarming data indicating that 25 countries, home to approximately one-quarter of the world’s population, are facing extremely high water stress.
This situation occurs when nearly all available water resources are consumed annually. The WRI’s Aqueduct Project’s Water Risk Atlas highlights this critical issue.
It indicates a broader global challenge: half of the world’s population, or around 4 billion people, experience severe water scarcity for at least one month each year.
Liz Saccoccia of WRI underscores the risks associated with such high levels of water stress, including threats to lives, jobs, and food and energy security.
Water is essential for various critical areas, from agriculture and livestock to electricity production and human health.
WRI notes that without improved water management, the challenges of population growth, economic development, and climate change could intensify water stress.
Globally, water demand has more than doubled since 1960, often surpassing available supplies.
This increase stems from factors like population growth and the needs of agriculture, energy production, and manufacturing sectors.
Inadequate investment in water infrastructure and inefficient water use policies compound the problem. Climate change further exacerbates the variability in water supply.
Brazil With Medium-Low Water Stress
Countries experiencing “extremely high water stress” use over 80% of their available water supply.
Those with “high water stress” use about 40%.
WRI warns that without significant interventions like infrastructure investment and better water governance, water stress could worsen, especially in areas with fast-growing populations and economies.
Countries listed as facing extreme water stress include Bahrain, Kuwait, and Saudi Arabia, among others.
Brazil, however, is classified as having “medium-low” water stress, ranking 103rd out of 164 assessed locations.
This global snapshot underscores the urgent need for action to manage and preserve one of our most vital resources: water.
Countries with Extreme Risk of Water Stress:
1. Bahrain
2. Cyprus
3. Kuwait
4. Lebanon
5. Oman
6. Qatar
7. United Arab Emirates
8. Saudi Arabia
9. Israel
10. Egypt
11. Libya
12. Yemen
13. Botswana
14. Iran
15. Jordan
16. Chile
17. San Marino
18. Belgium
19. Greece
20. Tunisia
21. Namibia
22. South Africa
23. Iraq
24. India
25. Syria
This article was produced by The Rio Times’ automated newsroom system. How we use AI · Report an error · Editorial responsibility: Matthias Camenzind, Editor-in-Chief