Factors affecting water supply

Climate: areas with low rainfall or seasonal rainfall (e.g. deserts, monsoon regions) face water shortages. Climate change worsens droughts and reduces water availability in some regions.
Geology: permeable rocks (e.g. sandstone) allow water to infiltrate and form aquifers, providing underground water supplies. Areas with impermeable rocks (e.g. granite) may lack groundwater resources.
Pollution of supply: refers to industrial waste, agricultural runoff (e.g. fertilizers, pesticides), and untreated sewage contaminating water sources. Polluted water is unsafe for agriculture, industry, and especially drinking.
Overabstraction: refers to excessive removal of water from rivers, lakes, and aquifers depletes supplies. This can lead to drying up of rivers.
Limited infrastructure: poor infrastructure in LICs/NEEs limits access to clean water (e.g. lack of pipes, reservoirs, or treatment plants).
Poverty: poor communities cannot afford water infrastructure or access to clean water. Reliance on unsafe water sources or the need to travel far distances for water increases health risks.

Sign up to unlock the rest of this topic — plus every other topic, video, flashcard set and eBook guide in your SnapRevise+ subscription.

Cancel anytime — instant access the moment you sign up.