1. Water stress How is demand for water changing?
Lesson Outcomes:
To know why demand for water is increasing
To understand water stress and scarcity
Topic 4: Water World

2. Starter
So far, freshwater is not scarce on a global scale. However, many parts of the word are now experiencing water stress. Write down what you understand the term “water stress” to mean
Water stress occurs when the demand for water exceeds the amount available during a certain period, or when it is not good enough quality to use.
Physical scarcity – shortages occur when demand exceeds supply. I.e. There is not enough good quality water available for everyone to have the amount they need
Economic Scarcity – when people cannot afford the water even if it is readily available.
Topic 4: Water World

3. Describe the location of water stressed countries in 1995.
How has this changed in Why do you think this is?

4. Why is water stress increasing?
Topic 4: Water World

5. Task
Look at the heading you have been given and think about how it is putting pressure on water supplies Swap with another group to add to your ideas Use the class ideas, plus page 60, to create your own mind map that shows the pressures on water supply Which two of the pressures on water supply are greatest? Explain your choice.
Topic 4: Water World

6. We know now that water supplies are not even around the world.
Some countries suffer from water stress and some don’t
But do you think demand for water is even?

7. Topic 4: Water World

8. True or False? Freshwater is not scarce globally
Demand for water is even
It is only LEDCs that will suffer from water stress in 2025
There are two types of water scarcity
Most global water is used by industry
Urbanisation is partly responsible for the decline in water availability
Topic 4: Water World