Water plays a crucial role in sustaining life on Earth. Covering approximately 71% of the planet’s surface, it is found in oceans, rivers, lakes, glaciers, and underground reservoirs. Oceans alone account for about 97% of all water, making them vital to Earth’s climate system and weather patterns. Water is not only essential for drinking but also supports agriculture, transportation, and countless ecosystems that depend on it to survive.
The Distribution and Challenges of Freshwater
Despite the vast amount of water on Earth, only about 2.5% of it is freshwater, and an even smaller portion is accessible for human use. Most freshwater is locked in glaciers and ice caps, leaving less than 1% available in rivers and lakes. This limited supply creates challenges in many parts of the world where access to clean water is scarce. As populations grow and climate change impacts global water cycles, managing and conserving water resources becomes more critical than ever.Shutdown123