In June 2026, residents of Sanjay Camp in New Delhi faced water shortages during severe heatwaves, leading them to fill plastic containers with water from a tanker to meet their needs. This situation is just one example of how the global water crisis is impacting communities around the world.
A recent report from the Global Commission on the Economics of Water highlights the alarming reality that over half of the world’s food production is at risk of collapsing in the next 25 years due to this growing crisis. Factors such as climate change, destructive land use, and mismanagement of water resources are putting nearly 3 billion people and more than half of global food production in areas facing unprecedented stress on their water systems.
The consequences of this trend are dire, with several cities already sinking due to a loss of groundwater. By 2050, up to 8% of the global GDP and 15% of the GDP of lower-income countries could be lost if the water crisis is not addressed. This not only poses a threat to human development but also to the environment, as we are pushing the global water cycle out of balance for the first time in human history.
It is crucial to recognize the true value of water and address the issue of underpricing in many areas. By implementing proper pricing and subsidies, shifting to plant-based diets, restoring natural habitats, and recycling wastewater, water can be distributed more efficiently and equitably. These actions can help mitigate the impacts of the water crisis and ensure a more sustainable future for all.
Furthermore, the report emphasizes the importance of considering both “blue water” and “green water” in water management strategies. While blue water from rivers, lakes, and aquifers is often the focus, green water contained in soil and plants plays a vital role in the global water cycle. Neglecting the importance of green water can lead to increased water scarcity in regions highly dependent on this resource.
Regions like India, China, Russia, and Europe are particularly vulnerable to water scarcity as weather patterns are disrupted. Recent events such as severe droughts in the Amazon, rapid glacier melting, and deadly floods in Europe underscore the urgent need for action to address the global water crisis. By valuing water properly and implementing sustainable water management practices, we can work towards a more secure and resilient water future for all.