Water Pollution: Causes And Solutions To Water Solution

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Water is a precious natural resource which is essential for the survival of all living things; however, fresh water is becoming finite at an increasingly fast rate. Water is vital for the economic and social growth of a country; to generate energy, maintain health and grow food. However, a rising population, combined with the effects of climate change puts a strain on water availability. The United Nations Development (2006) states that around 700 million people suffer from water scarcity in 43 different countries and these numbers are predicted to rise to 1.8 billion people by the year 2025. Water shortage is a concerning issue and it could be argued that the effects could prove detrimental as the threat continues to rise. As well as the causes
Climate change poses a large environmental threat and contributes to water shortage globally. Climate change refers to an increase in the Earth’s average surface temperature. This increase in temperature has been linked to the combustion of fossil fuels to generate electricity which releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming. Evidence from the IPCC shows that carbon dioxide levels rising over the last 150 years from 280 to 400 parts per million is directly proportional to climate increase over the past 50 years (Oreskes et al 2004, page 1686). Consequently, climate change has a great effect on the environment. Firstly, it results in seasonal changes, changes in rainfall patterns and an increase in sea level due to the melting of polar ice caps.
Firstly ‘fracking’ is carried out by injecting wells in the rock with a mixture of water, sand and chemicals to break it open to extract the fuel from it. The Food and Water Watch states that fracking one shale well requires millions of gallons of water, causing problems of water availability to arise, particularly in areas prone to water shortage. (9) Shale gas combustion releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere contributing to climate change which is also a major contributor to water scarcity. In addition, the shale gas released contributes to smog formation which is harmful to health and the environment, therefore alternative low carbon or renewable resources would be more suitable in helping to reduce water scarcity as well as air pollution. Secondly, fracking results in water pollution, which affects the quality and quantity of water. An article by the Scottish Government (2014) states 25-75% of the fracking fluid returns to the surface as waste-water. This wastewater combines with salty water containing contaminants, forming a mixture of toxic and radioactive substances which could put people at risk of sickness, if this leaked into drinking water. It also reduces the amount of fresh water available for essential daily needs. In conclusion, fracking contributes to water shortage globally as it uses up such a large quantity of water

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