The Looming Freshwater Crisis: Why It's More Than Just Short Showers

Fresh water: it's the lifeblood of our planet, essential for everything from sustaining ecosystems to supporting human civilization. But the reality is, we're facing a growing freshwater scarcity crisis, and the solutions are far more complex than simply turning off the tap while brushing our teeth.

The Dire Need for Fresh Water

At this very moment, countless individuals, particularly women and girls, undertake arduous journeys, often walking for hours to access fresh water. Even then, the water they find may be contaminated, leading to devastating consequences. Every 15 seconds, a child dies from waterborne diseases – a stark reminder of the urgency of this issue.

The most compelling reason to address freshwater scarcity lies in recognizing its importance for the global common good. Fresh water is vital for the flourishing of all life on Earth, both now and for generations to come.

Beyond Individual Habits: A Global Perspective

It's easy to assume that water shortages stem from individual wastefulness – leaving the water running or indulging in long showers. While conserving water in our daily lives is undoubtedly important, it's crucial to understand the bigger picture.

Globally, domestic water use accounts for a mere 8% of total freshwater consumption. In contrast, agriculture consumes a staggering 70%, while industrial uses account for 22%. This highlights the need to shift our focus beyond individual habits and address the systemic issues driving water scarcity.

The Importance of "Water Virtue"

While individual actions alone won't solve the global water crisis, cultivating what we might call "water virtue" in our daily lives remains important. Simple habits like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth contribute to a broader culture of conservation and respect for this precious resource.

Re-evaluating How We Value Water

To effectively tackle freshwater scarcity, we must critically examine how our societies value, distribute, and manage water resources. Key questions arise:

• Is water primarily an economic commodity, subject to market forces?
• Or is it a fundamental human right, accessible to all?
• Should it be considered a public good, managed for the benefit of society as a whole?

These questions are at the heart of the debate surrounding water management, engaging Nobel laureates, water justice activists, international organizations like the United Nations, and even religious institutions like the Catholic Church.

The Challenge of Profit vs. the Common Good

The business of water became increasingly profitable in the 20th century, creating a tension between profit motives and the common good. We must find ways to prioritize the long-term health of our planet and its inhabitants over short-term economic gains.

A Collective Task for a Sustainable Future

Ultimately, addressing freshwater scarcity requires a collective effort to value water as a public good – something vital for all life, now and in the future. This is a virtuous task that extends far beyond individual actions, demanding systemic changes in how we manage and distribute this precious resource.