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?
2.1 Water resources
Water covers 72% of the earth's surface, with a total volume estimated at 1.4 billion km 3 (see figure
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Bibliography
Regulations
(non-exhaustive list)
Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of October 23, 2000 establishing a framework for Community action in the field of water policy (Official Journal L 327 of December 22, 2000).
Directive (EU) no. 2020/2184 of December 16, 2020 on the quality of water intended for human consumption (OJEU no. L 435 of December 23, 2020).
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