Lecture on Global Water Crisis

Introduction

• Easy access to running water is often taken for granted.
• Water management is crucial for the survival and prosperity of civilizations.
• Example: Cape Town facing a severe drought, nearing "Day Zero".

Cities at Risk

• Many cities like Sao Paulo, Melbourne, Jakarta, etc., face similar threats.
• By 2040, global water demand may not be met year-round.

Water as a Limited Resource

• Earth has 326 million trillion gallons of water, but only 1% is usable.
• Access to water is geographically unequal (e.g., Kuwait vs. Canada).
• Most water is underground, making it hard to access.

Historical Context: Mexico City

• Originally settled near a giant lake.
• Over time, water mismanagement has led to issues like sinking land.

Current Water Usage

• Drinking, washing, and personal use account for only 8% of freshwater use.
• Agriculture and industry are the largest water consumers.

Water in Food and Products

• High water usage in production:
  • Coca-Cola: 98% water is in the ingredients.
  • Beef: 1,650 liters of water per quarter pound hamburger.

Economic Aspects

• Water's cost doesn't reflect its scarcity:
  • Farmers pay little for water.
  • Absurd water usage (e.g., alfalfa in deserts).

Water Commoditization and Infrastructure

• Potential for water to become "the petroleum of the 21st century".
• Problems like inefficient irrigation and poor infrastructure maintenance.

Conflicts and Agreements

• Water scarcity can lead to conflict (e.g., Darfur, Syria).
• Desalination is an option but costly.

Challenges of Pricing Water

• Valuing water vs. ensuring universal access.
• Income-based pricing models (e.g., Philadelphia experiment).

Case Study: Cape Town

• Public awareness and conservation efforts delayed "Day Zero" indefinitely.
• Highlights the importance of valuing water before crisis hits.

Conclusion

• Recognizing water's value is crucial.
• Collective action can prevent water shortages and encourage sustainable use.
• Historical consciousness and individual awareness are key to managing water resources.