2. Water resources and uses

Under the combined effect of population growth, socio-economic development and changing consumption patterns, global water use has been increasing annually by around 1% since the 1980s. Global demand for water is set to continue rising at a similar rate until 2050 (i.e. 20% to 30% above current levels), mainly due to increasing demand from industry and households. In the 20th century, the world's population tripled and water consumption increased sixfold. The world's population is expected to reach 10 to 12 billion by 2050. What will happen to the water supply?