01. Definition

What Is Water Scarcity?

Water scarcity occurs when the demand for water surpasses the available resources, or when poor water quality limits its use. It’s a problem that manifests in two primary ways: physical scarcity, where there simply isn’t enough water, and economic scarcity, where water infrastructure is insufficient to meet the needs of the population.

02. Causes

The Root Causes of Water Scarcity

The factors contributing to water scarcity are varied and complex:

Climate Change: Altered weather patterns, reduced glacial runoff, and more frequent droughts are making water less predictable and harder to manage.
Growing Population: As the global population swells, so too does the demand for water, putting immense pressure on already stressed resources.
Inefficient Water Management: Poorly managed water systems, from leaky infrastructure to wasteful agricultural practices, exacerbate the scarcity problem.
Pollution: Contaminated water sources further limit the availability of safe drinking water, adding another layer of complexity to the issue.

03. Impacts

The Far-Reaching Impacts

The consequences of water scarcity are severe and touch nearly every aspect of life:

Health Risks: Without access to clean water, diseases like cholera and typhoid thrive, particularly in regions already struggling with poverty.
Threat to Food Security:Agriculture, which consumes the majority of the world’s freshwater, is hit hard by water shortages, leading to reduced crop yields and higher food prices.
Economic Disruption: Industries reliant on water face production challenges, potentially leading to job losses and economic instability.
Social and Political Tensions: When water is scarce, competition can lead to conflicts, both within and between nations.

04. Solutions

Water scarcity solutions

Apr 2021

ORISA® water filter

A water filter suitable for populations with no access to drinking water

Utilities (Water, Energy, Waste)

Mar 2021

Use case available

Water Powered Piston Technology

Specific dosing pump for potabilisation, sanitation or plant feeding without electricity

Utilities (Water, Energy, Waste)
Agrifood & Natural Environment

Apr 2020

Oji Pure Solar

A stand-alone uvled solution for water purification at the point of use

Utilities (Water, Energy, Waste)
Buildings & Constructions

Apr 2024

Use case available

PV LifeBox Water Pumping & Desalination

A solar-powered unit generates electricity and desalinates water for underserved communities

Agrifood & Natural Environment

05. Implementations

Success Stories

Water Powered Piston Technology by Dosatron implemented by WATALUX SA in Pabré (Burkina Faso) in 2019

PV LifeBox Water Pumping & Desalination by Noornation implemented by LBX Ways Kherbawy Faem in Kafr Al-Sheikh (Egypt) in 2023

OASIS: Multimodal Hydroactive System by Le Prieuré Vegetal i.D. implemented by L'École nationale supérieure d'art et de design in Nancy (France) in 2015

CO2 treatment for limestone by Ecobulles implemented by Mr. and Mrs. Thomas in Vineuil (France) in 2017

Amphore by Kumulus Water implemented by Bazma primary school in Kebili (Tunisia) in 2022

VG Holz by Demet'Air implemented by Toulouse Métropole in Toulouse (France) in 2019

AQS Aquarius Spectrum by AQS (Aquarius Spectrum) implemented by A2A Ciclo Idrico in Brescia (Italy) in 2020

Waterless Urinal by URIMAT Schweiz AG implemented by McDonald's in Zurich (Switzerland) in 2002

Pump&Drink by Sotrad Water implemented by Ministère de l'Eau et de l'Hydraulique Villageoise + UNICEF in Dapaong (Togo) in 2022

OSMOSUN by OSMOSUN implemented by Island of Santiago in Island of Santiago (Cape Verde) in 2021

OSMOSUN by OSMOSUN implemented by Sand to Green in the Guelmim-Oued Noun region (Morocco) in 2024

Elemental Water Source by Elemental Water Makers implemented by Save the Children in Hafun (Somalia) in 2023

Hydraloop by Hydraloop Systems BV implemented by Upgrade Real Estate in Ghent (Belgium) in 2022

Hydraloop by Hydraloop Systems BV implemented by Wind Groep in Lemmer (Netherlands) in 2023

Shayp by Shayp implemented by Professional High School Le Balcon des Ardennes in Saint-Laurent (France) in 2021

ALTRA PROVEN WATER TECHNOLOGY by Sanexen implemented by City of Toronto in Toronto (Canada) in 2019

06. Challenges

Overcoming the Challenges

While solutions exist, implementing them is not without challenges:

Financial Barriers: Many regions struggle with the funding needed to upgrade water infrastructure and implement new technologies.
Political Hurdles: Effective water management requires strong political will, which can be hard to come by in areas of instability.
Cultural Resistance: Sometimes, traditional practices and beliefs can slow the adoption of new water-saving technologies.
Unpredictable Climate: As climate patterns continue to shift, planning for water management becomes increasingly complex.

07. Conclusion

Final Thoughts

Water scarcity is a daunting challenge, but it’s not insurmountable. By leveraging innovative solutions, fostering strong governance, and promoting sustainable practices, we can ensure that water remains a resource for all, now and in the future. The time to act is now—because without water, there is no life.

Connect with us

Any questions

Feel free to get in touch with us
pauline.michiels@solarimpulse.com

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