Water is the most significant resource on earth without which life cannot exist. This vital natural resource must be sustainably managed to meet future demands. Water conservation focuses on reducing water wastage whereas water efficiency is a concept that deals with the restricted use of water. Here, let’s look at the importance of water and water conservation methods with the help of diagrams.
Table of Contents
Importance of Water
Water is an indispensable natural resource which comprises a three-fourth portion of the earth. It plays a vital role in regulating the earth’s temperature. Water is required for crop irrigation and is thus an essential component of agriculture. It is also a basic requirement for both domestic and industrial activities.
It is a natural solvent that can dissolve many substances. In living organisms, it also plays an important role in regulating various physiological processes. It is the basic medium through which minerals and vitamins are getting transported.
Water Conservation
Water conservation denotes the preservation, regulation and protection of water resources. Water on earth comprises the following forms:
- Oceans
- Rivers
- Seas
- Lakes
- Snow
- Glacier
- Groundwater
Among these, only less than a percent of water is in the freshwater form and is usable by living organisms. However, due to overexploitation and pollution, water resources have become scarce and unusable. Whatever resource is left must be conserved with utmost care. Conservation of water can be done by various methods like rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, etc.
Also Check:Water Cycle
Reforestation
There is always a cyclic interchange of water molecules between the atmosphere and earth that constitutes the hydrological cycle (water cycle). The movement of water through this cycle has a major impact on the distribution of rainfall and temperature modification.
Forests (plants) are one of the essential elements that govern the hydrological cycle. Water vapour can be stored and released by layers of the forest canopy, roots, and branches, which invariably regulate rainfall. Forests also increase soil fertility by preventing erosion of the soil. Thus reforestation is a significant step toward water conservation.
Recycling Water
The household grey water from laundry, washbasins, washing machines and showers can be recycled and used for various purposes. Industrial, as well as municipal wastewater, can be recycled and used for crop irrigation. Water treatment plants can also be set to treat contaminated water and make it potable.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is one of the most effective water conservation techniques. Instead of wasting it, there are various methods for conserving rainwater. It is an eco-friendly technique to conserve water by guiding it to borewells and pits. The harvesting can be done on rooftops and open spaces.
A catchment area is used to store the collected rainwater. It is then transported to a recharge zone via a conveyance system. Finally, the water can be filtered and stored in tanks for later use.
Changing Lifestyle
As the population increases, the demand for water also increases. Due to scientific advancements, many appliances are designed such that a large quantity of water comes out when they are turned on. This has led to an increased need for water conservation keeping in mind the demand for the resource. Thus, simple efforts like closing the tap and fixing leaks can also play a role in the bigger picture of water conservation.
Save Water Diagram
Keep exploring BYJU’S Biology for more such exciting diagram topics.
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