4.2 Access to Freshwater Flashcards
Water Security
The capacity of a population to safeguard sustainable access to adequate quantities of acceptable quality water for sustaining livelihoods, human well - being and socio - economic development, for ensuring protection against water - borne pollution and water - related disasters, and for preserving ecosystems in a climate of peace and political stability.
Portable Water
Water that is free from impurities, pollution and bacteria, and is thus safe to drink.
Water - Scarce Area
An area in which water supply falls below 1000 m^3 per person a year.
Water - Stressed Area
An area in which water supply is below 1700 m^3 per person year.
Physical Water Scarcity
When physical access to water is limited.
Arid and Semi - Arid
Conditions where precipitation is less than 250mm and 500mm per year respectively.
Economic Water Scarcity
When a population does not have the necessary monetary means to access an adequate source of water.
Water Pollution
Contamination of a source of water making it unsuitable for use.
Water Supply
The provision of water by public utilities, commercial organizations or community endeavors.
Well
Relatively large in diameter and often sunk by hand, although machinery may be used.
Bore Hole
Typically drilled by machine and is relatively small in diameter.
Desalination
The conversion of salt water into fresh water by the extraction of dissolved solids.
Cloud Seeding
Any technique of adding material to a cloud to alter its natural development, usually to increase or obtain precipitation.
Grey Water
Water that has already been used for one purpose, but can possibly be reused for another purpose.
Rainwater Harvesting
The accumulation and storage of rainwater for reuse on site, rather than allowing it to run off.
