Geography – Trends in water consumption | e-Consult

Global economic forces significantly shape water consumption patterns in developing countries, often exacerbating existing water challenges. These forces can both increase and decrease water demand, and can influence the types of water-intensive activities that are prioritized.

• International Trade & Export-Oriented Industries: Developing countries often specialize in the production of water-intensive commodities (e.g., cotton, sugar, beverages). Export-oriented industries, driven by global demand, can lead to increased water extraction and pollution. For example, the cotton industry in India and Pakistan is a major water consumer, and its expansion has strained water resources in those regions. Similarly, the production of biofuels in developing countries can compete with food production for water.
• Foreign Investment & Infrastructure Development: Foreign investment in infrastructure projects (e.g., dams, industrial facilities) can significantly alter water availability and distribution. While these projects can bring economic benefits, they can also have negative environmental and social consequences, such as displacement of communities and disruption of ecosystems. The construction of large dams in Africa, often financed by foreign investors, has been controversial due to their impact on river flows and livelihoods.
• Global Supply Chains & Water Footprint: Developing countries are often integrated into global supply chains, supplying raw materials and components to manufacturing industries in developed countries. This can lead to a hidden water footprint, as water is consumed at various stages of the supply chain. For example, the production of electronics in China relies on water-intensive processes, and the water consumed in these processes is often not fully accounted for.
• Consumerism & Imported Goods: Increased consumerism, often driven by global marketing and advertising, leads to higher demand for goods that require water to produce. This can put additional strain on water resources in developing countries, particularly in areas with limited water infrastructure. The growing demand for beef, for example, is linked to increased water consumption in the livestock sector.

Examples:

• The Amazon Rainforest: Deforestation driven by global demand for beef and soy has reduced water availability and increased the risk of drought in the Amazon basin.
• Southeast Asia: The expansion of the pulp and paper industry in Southeast Asia has led to water pollution and water scarcity in several countries.
• Africa: Large-scale agricultural projects, often supported by foreign investment, have contributed to water depletion and land degradation in many African countries.

Conclusion: Global economic forces have a profound impact on water consumption patterns in developing countries. Addressing these challenges requires a more equitable and sustainable global economy that prioritizes water security and environmental protection. This includes promoting responsible trade practices, regulating foreign investment, and reducing the water footprint of global supply chains.