A problem that the entire world may have to face someday, is being overlooked by much of society today. The fresh water supply on earth is a scarce source, less than 1% of Earth’s water is fresh. There are many problems contributing to this shortage but some of the major issues are rivers are being polluted, global warming and the privatization of water. Aldo Leopold said “The way we treat rivers reflects the way we treat each other.” We live society where our morals are becoming diminished by our high expectations and mass producing ways. We live our lives by convenience and sometimes disregard the consequences that our actions leave behind. Things such as the pesticides and fertilizers used in agriculture, sewer overflows, and the oil and grease from the roads, are running off and ending up in the water systems. We are not taking mind to these pollutants entering our rivers, lakes, estuaries and coastal waters that is ultimately adding to our shortage of fresh water. Another factor that many scientist believe is significantly contributing to our water shortage is global warming. Global warming is an increase in the average temperature of the earth's atmosphere, which results in flooding and more runoff during the rainy season, but also less water held as snow and ice in the mountain for use in the dry season. This is depleting the amount of water on Earth. Lastly, privatization of water can foster corruption and result in increased bills for water, poor customer service and a loss of local control and accountability. With such a scarce source as fresh water, our communities need to assume the responsibility of making sure it is not wasted and is affordable for all. There are 31 countries and over 1 billion people today that to not have access to clean drinking water, and the number are and will continue to rise unless we take action.
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