Water is one of the most important substances on the Earth for the sustenance of life. It has been used since antiquity as a symbol by which to express devotion and purity. Today water resources have been extensively exploited. Our natural heritage (rivers, seas and oceans) has been exploited, mistreated and contaminated due to rapid population, industrialisation, urbanisation, increasing standards of living and various other human activities.
What is Water Footprint?
Source: istock
Water Footprint refers to as the total volume of freshwater that is used to produce the goods and services consumed by the individual or community or produced by the business. It is a measure of humanity’s appropriation of fresh water in volumes of water consumed and/or polluted in terms of Cubic Meter/per person/per year. 1240 Cubic meter/person/year is the Global Water Footprint.
What are Carbon Footprint and Carbon Offsetting?
Types of Water Footprint
On the basis of uses and sources, Water Footprint is categorised into three types which is given below:
1. Green Water Footprint: It refers to that volume of freshwater that evaporated from the global green water resources such as moist lands, wetlands, soil, farms etc., in producing goods and services consumed by the individual or community. It is particularly relevant for agricultural, horticultural and forestry products.
2. Blue Water Footprint: It refers to that volume of freshwater that evaporated from the global blue water resources such as lakes, rivers, ponds, reservoirs and wells in producing goods and services consumed by the individual or community.
3. Grey Water Footprint: It refers to that volume of freshwater that was polluted in producing the goods and services consumed by the individual or community.
Ocean Acidification: Causes and its effects on Marine Ecosystem
How can an individual reduce Water footprint?
1. By installing water saving toilets
2. By applying a water-saving showerhead
3. By turning off the tap while brushing your teeth
4. By using less water in the garden
5. Not disposing of medicines, paints or other pollutants down the sink
Human, being a creator of its own life, considers water as its servant. We utilise water in every aspect of our lives, such as for crop cultivation, cleaning homes, bathing, drinking, and also in industries. We use water to transport goods. The study of water cycle not only helps us in understanding ourselves in a better way, but also reminds us that nothing is stationary in this world. Exploiting water resources like a master do with its servants can end up in destroying the life on earth.
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