In countries where rainfall is very sparse, scientists must constantly seek ways to increase supplies of water. One method being considered is the use of desalination plants, which would remove salt from seawater. Another method being considered is the towing of icebergs. According to this method, large icebergs from Antarctica would be wrapped in cloth or plastic, tied to powerful tugboats by strong ropes, and towed to the countries needing freshwater. While this plan may have some potential, there are certain practical problems that must be solved.
The first problem is the expense. According to estimates, it would cost between $50 million to tow a single 100-million-ton iceberg from Antarctica to, for example, the coast of Saudi Arabia.
The second problem is the possibility that the iceberg would melt en route. At the very least, there is the possibility that it would break up into smaller pieces, which would create still other problems.
The third problem, there is the danger that a huge block of ice floating of an arid coast could have unexpected environment effects. The ice could drastically change the weather along the coast, and it would probably affect the fish population.
In conclusion, before icebergs can become a source of freshwater in the future, problems involving cost, overall practically, and most important, environment impact must be solved.