Water resources: what are, examples and importance

Water resources are Water sources that play a vital role in our daily lives and in the ecosystem in general. There are various types of water resources that provide fresh water for human consumption, agriculture, energy generation and other uses.

The quantity and configuration of water resources varies according to the geographical region. While in some places it is wasted, in others it is an especially scarce good. In addition, there are several pollutant agents and activities that threaten the protection of water resources and require continuous measures to prevent them.

It is well known that two thirds of the earth’s surface are submerged, and 97.5% of this total water is contained in the oceansthat is, salt water and brackish, whose use requires additional activities such as desalination.

As a result, Only 2.5% of the land of the earth is fresh waterand of this percentage, 68.9% are in the polar and glaciers of the planet, and another 30.1% in the underground aquifers. Only 0.4% of the superficial fresh water is for direct use.

In principle, water resources do not have a specific use because they are natural resources. But they can be used by us for various activities, such as:

• Agriculture. It is used to water the plantations.
• Livestock industry. Give water to cattle animals.
• Chemical industry. Obtain hydrogen and oxygen, or provide fuel for other controlled chemical reactions.
• Urban consumption. Take fresh water to our homes for cooking, showering or cleaning.
• Mining. Separate the valuable components from the rest of the ground.
• Dynamic industry. In a hydroelectric power plant, or power plant, steam is used to generate electricity.

We also recommend reading this article about what is the importance of natural resources.

• Rivers: The rivers are water currents that flow through the earth’s surface. They are an important source of fresh water and usually supply entire cities, towns and regions. In addition, rivers play a crucial role in crop irrigation and hydroelectric energy generation. Here you can learn about why rivers and lakes are important.
• Lakes and lagoons: These bodies of water, generally larger and more stable than rivers, are another important form of water resource. Lakes store large amounts of fresh water and can supply drinking water to surrounding communities. In addition, they are important habitats for various species of plants and animals. In this post you can know the difference between lake and lagoon.
• Aquifers: Aquifers are underground water deposits found in the porous layers of the soil or rock. They represent an essential source of groundwater, which is extracted through wells. Many areas depend on aquifers to supply drinking water to the population and for agriculture. In this article we explain more about what an aquifer is and how it is formed.
• Glaciers: The glaciers are huge ice masses formed by the accumulation of snow and ice for long periods of time. They are considered important water resources, since they provide fresh water in the form of thaw. Glaciers supply rivers and lakes, and their gradual fusion contributes to the recharge of aquifers. Here you can read about what the glaciers are.
• Reservoirs: The reservoirs are large artificial water reservoirs that are created when blocking rivers through dams. These bodies of water regulate the flow of rivers, storing water during periods of abundant rain and gradually releasing it in moments of scarcity. In addition to providing water for human consumption and agriculture, reservoirs are also used to generate hydroelectric energy.
• Wetlands: Wetlands are areas where water is present permanently or temporarily, creating a unique habitat for numerous species of plants and animals. These ecosystems act as natural filters, purifying water and contributing to the recharge of underground aquifers. In addition, wetlands are also important to control floods and protect the coasts of erosion. Know more about wetlands: what are, types and characteristics here.
• Seawater: Although seawater is not potable for human consumption, it can be used for other purposes, such as energy generation through mareomotor energy plants or desalination to obtain fresh water. Desalination is a process by which the salt of seawater is removed, making it usable fresh water.

• Water resources perform a vital role in our lives and in the functioning of ecosystems. Its importance is undeniable and affects multiple aspects of our society.
• First, water resources are essential for our drinking water supply. Fresh water from rivers, lakes, aquifers and other sources is necessary to satisfy our daily consumption, hygiene and sanitation needs. Without access to clean and safe water, our health would be seriously affected.
• In addition to human consumption, water resources are indispensable for Agriculture. Crop irrigation depends largely on rivers, reservoirs and groundwater to maintain productive fields and feed a growing population. Without enough water, food production would be compromised and we could face scarcity and famine.
• Another crucial aspect is the generation of Hydroelectric energy. Especially rivers with dams and reservoirs are an important source of renewable energy.
• They also support incredible biodiversity. The rivers, lakes and wetlands house a great variety of species of plants, animals and other living beingswhich depend on the water to survive. These aquatic ecosystems are fundamental habitats and are part of complex food chains.
• In addition to its ecological importance and for human life, water resources also have a recreational and cultural value. Lakes, rivers and beaches provide spaces for leisure, aquatic sports, fishing and relaxation.

Now that you know better what are water resources, we recommend you read these articles on the overexploitation of water: causes, consequences and solutions and water conservation: importance and techniques.

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