As the world grapples with the far-reaching impacts of climate change, one critical facet emerges as a harbinger of crisis — the unsustainable use of water in agriculture. The FAO Aquastat database, offering a sobering glimpse into global water consumption patterns, reveals that numerous countries, particularly in the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond, are pushing their annual water budgets to the brink. This overextension has dire implications for health, agriculture, and the very essence of life.
Hotspots of Water Overwithdrawal
Countries in the Middle East and North Africa, characterized by desert climates, face an alarming trend of agricultural water withdrawal surpassing the limits of renewable freshwater resources. Notably, Spain, South Africa, South Korea, Pakistan, and India stand out for utilizing a higher share of their freshwater for agriculture than their counterparts. This unsustainable practice is not only jeopardizing water security but also paving the way for potential health crises.
Groundwater Depletion: A Ticking Clock
Desert climates, particularly on the Arabian Peninsula, force nations to overextend their annual water budgets through agricultural activities alone. The United Arab Emirates, for instance, is on a perilous trajectory, with studies suggesting it could exhaust its groundwater supply by 2030. Similarly, in Pakistan and Iran, a staggering 63 to 70 percent of renewable freshwater resources were dedicated to agriculture in 2020, rising to 68 and 77 percent when considering all freshwater uses.
Central Asia’s Cotton Conundrum
In the semi-arid climates of Central Asia, extensive and water-intensive agriculture, particularly in cotton cultivation, is exacerbating freshwater challenges. Uzbekistan, utilizing 111 percent of renewable water resources per year, and Turkmenistan, at 65 percent (106 percent when considering all freshwater use), exemplify the strains on water resources in these regions. Jordan is the sole country extending its freshwater budget when combining agriculture and other freshwater uses.
Global Ramifications and Health Impacts
Globally, agriculture accounts for a staggering 72 percent of all freshwater withdrawals, often characterized by overuse. The FAO underscores a 20 percent decline in global freshwater resources per person in recent decades, alongside deteriorating water availability and quality. Pollution and climate change further compound these challenges, stretching this precious resource thinner. As World Food Day approaches on October 16, echoing the theme “Water is life, water is food,” it becomes imperative to address the nexus of water, agriculture, and health to ensure no one is left behind.
Conclusion
The ominous trend of overusing freshwater resources in agriculture demands urgent attention. As we approach World Food Day, the call to action is clear: water is not just a vital resource; it is the essence of life and sustenance. Balancing agricultural needs with sustainable water practices is paramount to safeguarding global health, ensuring food security, and cultivating a resilient future where water is not squandered but cherished.