Lecturer Tuğçe Yılmaz Karan from Üsküdar University's Environmental Health Department evaluated the effects of climate change on water resources on the occasion of March 22 World Water Day.
Many living species face the threat of extinction without fresh water
Reminding that 2/3 of the world is covered with water and 97.5 percent of the water on Earth is saltwater in the oceans, Lecturer Tuğçe Yılmaz Karan said, “A large portion of the remaining 2.5 percent of freshwater is found in the poles. Groundwater and surface water are the waters that people can obtain as drinking and utility water, and their quantity and quality vary from year to year, according to climate, population, or need. Therefore, global water resources are of great importance. Because, as we all know, many living species face the threat of extinction, and are even becoming extinct, without fresh water.”
Every drop of water can lead to irreversible losses in human life!
Stating that the scarcity of freshwater resources indicates the necessity of protecting, restoring, and developing these resources, Karan said, “Lakes and rivers provide a large portion of the water needed. However, surface freshwater resources constitute only 1 percent of the total water. Globally, both surface and groundwater resources are severely depleted today. In this period when we face the threat of water resource depletion, people continue to use water thoughtlessly and extravagantly as if they have an unlimited supply. However, we need to realize that every drop of water can lead to irreversible losses in human life.”
What measures can be taken to prevent future water scarcity?
Stating that the temperature increase and changing precipitation patterns caused by climate change negatively affect the water cycle, Karan said, “This situation increases the frequency of extreme weather events such as drought or excessive rainfall in many regions, reducing both the quality and quantity of water resources. Various measures can be taken to prevent future water scarcity, and these measures need to be implemented without delay, before water scarcity begins. Efficient water use against water scarcity; washing dishes in a machine, waiting for dishwashers and washing machines to be full, not letting water run unnecessarily during bathing, repairing taps, reducing single-use plastics, treating wastewater, and supporting infrastructure projects are among the measures that can be taken.”
Water pollution causes diseases like cholera
Noting that water pollution means the presence of disease-causing microorganisms, or pathogens, in water, Karan continued:
“Among the diseases caused by these pathogens are serious ailments such as cholera, typhoid, diarrhea, polio, amoebic dysentery, jaundice, and typhoid. In addition to pathogen-related diseases, water pollution can also lead to respiratory diseases, cancer, neurological disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. For example, oil spills pose a great danger to humans. Heavy metals in water can pass into seafood, and neurological diseases can be observed in people who consume these organisms due to heavy metal accumulation.”
Water pollution causes serious damage to the ecosystem
Karan also explained that water pollution causes serious damage to aquatic ecosystems, leading to a decrease in biodiversity, changes in food chains, and the death of aquatic organisms. “When pollutants disrupt the pH balance of water, fish and other aquatic organisms in rivers are put at great risk. Using water in this condition for agricultural irrigation or as drinking water can endanger human health. Furthermore, nutrient pollution from agricultural waste can trigger harmful algal blooms in aquatic environments, leading to decreased oxygen levels and serious environmental problems. All these adversities can affect food sources, causing food shortages and significant economic losses.”
Microplastic pollution must be prevented!
Noting that plastic and microplastic pollution is also a significant problem threatening water resources, Karan stated, “Over time, plastic products and waste break down due to natural erosion and various atmospheric effects, transforming large plastics into small pieces and forming microplastics. These small plastic particles can mix with water and spread in water sources, causing pollution of water sources and ecosystems and leading to various environmental problems. Therefore, efforts should be made to prevent microplastic pollution by taking measures such as plastic waste management, recycling, and reducing plastic consumption.”
Pesticides disrupt aquatic ecosystems when mixed with water
Underlining that the issue of water scarcity is gaining increasing importance for the sustainability of agricultural activities today, Karan said, “The water consumption of the agricultural sector constitutes a significant portion of global freshwater resources, and this situation causes serious concerns, especially in regions with limited water resources. Therefore, effective management of water use and the implementation of water-saving techniques are of great importance for the sustainability of future agricultural production. Agricultural activities also have a significant impact on water pollution. Chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and excessive irrigation used in agriculture can seriously pollute water resources. When chemical fertilizers and pesticides mix with water, they disrupt aquatic ecosystems, negatively affect underwater life, and cause water resource pollution. This situation adversely affects aquatic life and human health by changing the chemical composition of the water.”
Strategies to mitigate water scarcity are vital for humanity
Explaining that water scarcity has become one of the most serious environmental problems facing today's world, and that the determination and implementation of strategies to alleviate this problem are vital for humanity, Karan said, “Especially in regions at risk of drought, water saving and efficient use are among the critical steps to reduce the effects of scarcity. Individuals and societies need to review their water usage habits. It is also important for local governments to take measures against water scarcity in their water management policies and to carry out public awareness campaigns on this issue. The development of wastewater treatment systems and the reuse of treated water in agriculture and industry enable more efficient water use by allowing water recycling. Furthermore, methods such as rainwater harvesting and storage contribute to the preservation of water reserves and the more effective use of natural resources.”
Is it possible to leave a greener, water-rich world for future generations?
Also stating that it is essential to implement comprehensive and multifaceted strategies to combat water scarcity and protect water resources, Karan concluded, “These strategies should encourage everyone to save water while also focusing on developing alternative water sources. Thus, it is hoped that it will be possible to leave a greener, healthier, and water-rich world for future generations.”
