A landmark new report by the Global Commission on the Economics of Water warns that half of the world’s food production could fail over the next 25 years unless urgent action is taken to address the global water shortage. The report highlights that demand for fresh water will outstrip supply by 40 percent by the end of the decade, as global water systems face “unprecedented stress.”
The commission cites a combination of deforestation, urbanization, and destruction of wetlands, accelerated by climate change, as factors that have disrupted the global water cycle “for the first time in human history.” The report emphasizes that without immediate policy action, economies and global security are at significant risk, with human lives hanging in the balance.
Impact on Asia
Asia, home to over half of the world’s population, stands to be profoundly affected by the looming water crisis. The continent’s vast agricultural sectors, which feed billions both within and beyond its borders, are heavily dependent on stable water supplies. Countries like India, China, and those in Southeast Asia rely on monsoon rains and river systems that are increasingly unpredictable due to climate change and environmental degradation.
Economic Consequences
The potential failure of half of the world’s food production could have catastrophic economic implications. In Asia, where agriculture is a cornerstone of many economies, reduced crop yields could lead to food shortages, increased prices, and heightened poverty levels. This scenario could also deter investors and disrupt global supply chains, affecting business professionals and market analysts worldwide.
Call to Action
The report urges policymakers to implement water conservation strategies, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and address climate change proactively. It underscores the necessity for international cooperation to manage water resources effectively and prevent a global crisis that could destabilize economies and societies.
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Global water crisis threatens half of world's food production by 2050
cgtn.com
