In addition to finding solutions to the problems of clean drinking water, experts are also considering ways to reduce the impact of water shortages on the world's food production .Already 40 per cent of the world's population lives in countries where water is scarce. By 2030, one in five developing countries will be suffering from a water shortage. However, new agricultural techniques are being developed which can increase food production while using little water. By using better seeds and boosting soil fertility with the use of fertilisers, farmers can produce higher yields, obtaining the greatest gains from precious water supplies.
People's attitudes to water vary tremendously, according to the situation in which they live. In some regions, people have to manage with just one bucketful of water for a whole day. This means water for drinking, washing and cooking. On the other hand, in areas where people have a continuous supply of running water, they often use water wastefully and the concept of conserving water is a new one. For example, .leaving the tap running while you brush your teeth uses 10 litres of water - the equivalent of a whole day's supply for some people.
Apart from developing better water management policies, many governments are now committed to awareness-raising campaigns, educating both adults and school children about responsible water use. The key to a future in which there is enough water for us all is a simple one: our water needs to be managed wisely, we all need to be careful with it, and we need to start today.