The drying of our planet

Experts have warned that global warming will accentuate water scarcity. In many regions, greater aridity, shifting rainfall patterns and dwindling run-off from snow and ice, may deplete rivers, lakes and acquifiers. On the other hand, some areas may get more rainfall in the form of fierce storms that cause flash floods. According to a report on the IoL site, the European Environment Agency has urged governments to start planning now to cope with climate-induced water stress. Full IoL report

The World Wide Fund for Nature has warned that pollution, dams and climate change could destroy some of the world’s most important rivers in coming decades, causing severe water shortages and the extinction of a number of freshwater species. WWF said governments need to radically step up efforts to preserve rivers, lakes and wetlands that provide millions of people with drinking water and food, and the water needed for agriculture, reports the Cape Times. ‘The freshwater crisis ... mirrors the extent to which unabated development is jeopardising nature\'s ability to meet our growing demands,’ said Jamie Pittock, of WWF. And, Rodney February, of WWF-SA, said that the SA Government continues to pursue economic strategies that do not tackle the reality that the country is fast running out of water, according to a report on the IoL site. Already more than 84% of SA’s freshwater systems are threatened while a staggering 44% are in a critical condition. February said economic planning strategies that did not provide for both basic human needs and the ecology were pointless. Full report in the Cape Times Full IoL report

World Health Organisation Director-General Margaret Chan says that a lack of water to meet daily needs is a reality for many and has serious health consequences, reports Bua News. Chan said ‘the situation is getting worse due to population growth, urbanisation and increased domestic and industrial water use\'. She noted, every year, more than 1.6m people died because of lack of access to safe water and sanitation. Locally, SA Water Affairs and Forestry Minister Lindiwe Hendricks said the availability of water was a key factor in the growth of the country\'s economy and in the alleviation of poverty. She added that conserving water was the responsibility of all in SA as every drop counted. An SABC News report notes that Hendriks has expressed her concern over water shortages in the country. And, she has encouraged communities to report water leakages and burst pipes. Full Bua News report Full SABC News report