IB Geography A.3.3 Human Pressures on Lakes and Aquifers Notes

Economic and Demographic Influences on Water Scarcity

1. Imagine moving to a rapidly growing city.
2. The streets are alive with activity, new businesses are opening, factories are expanding, and people are arriving daily in search of opportunities.
3. Yet, amidst this growth, you notice a troubling pattern: water shortages are becoming more frequent, and rivers are increasingly polluted. What’s causing this?
4. This scenario illustrates the critical relationship between economic and demographic changes and water scarcity. By understanding these influences, you can uncover solutions to one of the world’s most pressing challenges.
5. Let’s explore two major drivers of water scarcity: economic growth and population migration.

Economic Growth: Industrial Expansion and Urbanization

1. Economic growth often brings prosperity, but it also intensifies water demand.
2. As industries expand and cities grow, the need for water increases, whether for industrial processes, urban infrastructure, or residential use.
3. However, this growth can lead to over-extraction of water resources and pollution, creating a cycle of scarcity.

How Does Economic Growth Increase Water Demand?

1. Industrial Water Use: Industries like manufacturing, mining, and energy production require substantial amounts of water. For example, producing steel or textiles consumes vast quantities of water. As economies grow, these industries expand, driving up water demand.
2. Urbanization: Growing cities require water for residential needs, sanitation, and municipal services. Even the construction of urban infrastructure, such as roads and buildings, demands water.
3. Agricultural Intensification: Economic growth often leads to increased food production to meet the demands of wealthier populations. This requires more irrigation, a sector that accounts for the largest share of global freshwater use.

Consequences of Over-Extraction and Pollution

1. Depletion of Aquifers: In many regions, groundwater is extracted faster than it can naturally replenish. For instance, the Ogallala Aquifer in the U.S. has seen water table declines of up to 50 meters in some areas, largely due to agricultural and industrial use.