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Industrial Water Use

Water use photo gallery, learn about water use through pictures, water-use data for the nation, the usgs national water information system (nwis) compiles and publishes national water-use data every 5 years., water use information by topic, water science school home.

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The industries that produce metals, wood and paper products, chemicals, gasoline and oils, and those invaluable grabber utensils you use to get your ring (which also needed water to manufacture) out of the garbage disposal are major users of water.

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Probably every manufactured product uses water during some part of the production process. Industrial water use includes water used for such purposes as fabricating, processing, washing, diluting, cooling, or transporting a product; incorporating water into a product; or for sanitation needs within the manufacturing facility. Some industries that use large amounts of water produce such commodities as food, paper, chemicals, refined petroleum, or primary metals.

Industrial Water Use in the United States

Every five years, water withdrawal and use data at the county level are compiled into a national water-use data system, and state-level data are published in a national circular. 

Access the most recent National industrial data, maps, and diagrams .

Want to know more about industrial water use?  Follow me to the Industrial Water Use website!

Below are science topics relating to industrial water use.

Surface Water Use in the United States

Groundwater Use in the United States

Saline Water Use in the United States

Freshwater Withdrawals in the United States

Below are multimedia resources related to industrial water use.

Industrial water use: Brunswick Cellulose paper plant, Brunswick, GA

Industrial Water Use Georgia Pacific Brunswick Cellulose paper plant, Brunswick, Georgia, USA

Below are publications related to industrial water use.

Estimated use of water in the United States in 2015

Estimated use of water in the united states in 2010.

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8 Uses of Water in Industry to Know About

Water isn’t only essential for our survival. It’s also the backbone of many industries – a lot more than you might assume.

Almost every stage of most production or manufacturing processes relies on water. Without water, many of the biggest manufacturing companies simply wouldn’t exist.

In this guide, we’ve shared 8 of the most common industrial water uses . We’ve also shared some key information on what happens to industrial wastewater.

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Industrial water is water that’s used for various industrial and manufacturing processes.
• Common uses of industrial water include producing food products and beverages, manufacturing chemicals, and producing electricity.
• Wastewater from most industries is treated and discharged into the environment or a biological treatment plant.

Table of Contents

🚰 What Is Industrial Water?

📥 8 industrial uses of water, 🔎 what happens to industrial wastewater, 📝 final word.

Industrial water is a water supply that’s delivered to industrial companies for various manufacturing processes.

There are several possible water needs for industrial water usage, including:

• Product fabrication
• Washing and diluting
• Product storage or transportation

Most products we use at home, from the foods we eat to the clothes we wear, have been made with water.

The volume of industrial water withdrawal depends on the industry in question. An industrial process like textile manufacturing has a high water consumption and uses more water resources than assembly processes that use low-to-no water.

Industrial water isn’t the same as wastewater, which occurs as a byproduct or a manufacturing or production process.

Different types of industrial water are needed for different purposes. For instance, the medical, food processing, and electronics manufacturing industries usually require deionized or distilled water, which is free from all its charged minerals or completely pure (depending on the treatment process used).

We’ve discussed 8 of the common industrial water uses below.

Making Foods And Beverages

To start with the obvious, water is an essential ingredient in a variety of food and beverage products. It’s used for cleaning, mixing, sanitizing, cooking, and blending during the manufacturing process, and it’s commonly used in product formulations.

Some of the industries that use water for food and beverage manufacturing purposes are dairy industries, soft drink companies, breweries, and meat producers.

Producing Textiles & Clothes

Another big source of industrial water withdrawal is the textile industry. Water plays an important role in the manufacturing of textiles, and is needed for cleaning, scouring, dyeing, bleaching, printing, and finishing .

Textile mills produce fabrics and garments with substantial amounts of water – and fresh water is also needed to produce certain clothing materials, like cotton. Producing just 1 kilogram of cotton requires around 10,000 liters of water . To put that into perspective, a cotton t-shirt requires around 2,700 liters of water to produce.

Chemical Manufacturing

Water is used for a variety of purposes in the chemical industry, including in fertilizers, dyes, plastics, petrochemicals, and other chemical manufacturing sectors.

Water takes on several different roles, depending on the processing method requires – it can be a diluent, solvent, or reactant in chemical reactions , and can be used in the formulation, synthesis, and purification of chemical products .

Steel & Metal Production

The steel and metal industry uses water for lubrication, cooling, shaping, and cleaning processes .

For instance, water is used to cool and quench molten metals, protect equipment, and clean metal surfaces. It’s also used as a coolant for equipment and machinery used in metalworking operations. Most water in the steel and metal industry isn’t used , and is recycled back into rivers and other surface water sources – often cleaner than when extracted.

Pharmaceutical Processes

Water is one of the main ingredients used in the majority of pharmaceutical production processes.

Water is used to produce certain pharmaceutical products , purify ingredients for drug formulation, aid in synthesis, and clean and sterilize equipment . Potable water is needed for most pharmaceutical processes, and some manufacturers may purify their water on-site.

Agriculture

Any food and agriculture organization that grows and produces crops requires a large, consistent water supply.

Agricultural water consumption is on the increase, now accounting for over 70% of freshwater in the world. Water is needed for irrigation, crop sprinkling and frost protection, livestock watering, and pesticide and herbicide applications . Sustainable farming practices can be adopted to conserve water, but the reality is that agriculture is one of the top three industries that uses the most water every year.

Related: What is an Ag Well?

Paper And Pulp

Water is also used heavily in the paper and pulp production process.

Water is needed to separate fibers, dilute pulp and transport pulp slurries, wash and bleach pulp, and control water levels . Paper is made from trees, which consume vast amounts of water, contributing to the high volume of water used in the paper milling industry. A variety of paper products are made using water.

Automotive Processes

There are several automotive manufacturing processes that require water. An estimated 40,000 gallons of water are used to produce a single car.

Some of the common uses of water in the automotive industry include cleaning and degreasing automotive parts, surface treatment processes and painting , metal finishing, boiler feed, lubrication and cooling in machining operations, and as a coolant in the manufacture of engines.

Nuclear Power Plants

Water is essential in nuclear power stations. It’s used in extracting and processing uranium fuel, cooling operations (such as in cooling towers), steam generation and producing electricity, as well as controlling risks and wastes.

Large nuclear power plants may use up to 1 billion gallons of water every single day .

These are just a few examples of the various industrial uses of water. Different industries use different types and quantities of water, depending on the nature of their processes, the water availability, and any local regulations.

So, we know how industrial water is used, but what happens to the water that’s used in industrial processes?

The treatment and disposal of industrial wastewater depends on what the water has been used for and what it contains.

In many cases, the water is recycled and disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner . There are laws and local regulations in place that outline where wastewater can be discharged, and how this water should be treated before discharge.

In some parts of the world, wastewater from industrial processes may be sent straight back into a public drinking water supply, untreated.

There are hundreds of industrial uses of water – far more than we could include in this single guide.

Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of how water is used for various manufacturing processes, and just how much water it takes to make some of the products we take for granted.

Got any more specific questions about industrial water use? Check out our FAQ below.

More Readings:

• Understanding Water Treatment
• Practical Tips for Water Conservation at Home (21 Easy Methods)
• Common Drinking Water Contaminants – Know What’s in Your Water

What is the biggest use for water in industry?

There’s no data or research that tells us for certain what the biggest industrial use of water is. However, we do know which industries have a high water consumption, and fruit and vegetable farming is said to be the number 1 for having the highest water use. Other industrial processes that use a lot of water include the manufacturing of clothing and textiles, meat production, automotive manufacturing, and beverage production.

How much of the world’s water is used for industry?

An estimated 17 percent of total water withdrawals are used for industrial processes. The distribution of this water across industries depends on the types of processes used – some industries consume a lot more water than others.

What manufacturing uses the most water?

It’s thought that textile production is the manufacturing process that uses the most water. The fashion industry uses an estimated 79 billion cubic meters of freshwater per year , mainly due to the use of cotton, which has a high water demand. Producing a single pair of jeans uses around 7,000 liters of water.

Why does manufacturing use so much water?

The reason why manufacturing uses so much water is that many processes – far more than we realize – rely on water for proper operation. Some of the processes that require water include washing, cooling, fabricating, processing, diluting, and transporting a product. Water is also needed to produce foods, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and paper products.

What businesses use water?

There are hundreds of businesses that use water, even beyond the obvious. Dairy industries, water companies, pulp and paper mills, textile manufacturers, sugar refineries and mills, fruit and vegetable farms, and aircraft and automotive industries all heavily use water.

What is the difference between commercial and industrial water use?

The difference between commercial and industrial water is that commercial water is used not to manufacture a product but to provide a service or sell a product, while industrial water is used in industrial and manufacturing processes.

Is industrial water the same as potable water?

No, industrial water isn’t the same as the potable water that’s distributed to our homes. Since the majority of industrial water withdrawals are for non-potable purposes, industrial water is only partially treated, rather than undergoing the more extensive treatment of municipal drinking water. Certain industrial facilities may need to treat their water in-house for certain purposes, such as for use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.

For 20+ years, Jennifer has championed clean water. From navigating operations to leading sales, she's tackled diverse industry challenges. Now, at Redbird Water, she crafts personalized solutions for homes, businesses, and factories. A past Chamber President and industry advocate, Jennifer leverages her expertise in cutting-edge filtration and custom design to transform water concerns into crystal-clear solutions.

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U.S. Manufacturing Water Use Data and Estimates: Current State, Limitations, and Future Needs for Supporting Manufacturing Research and Development

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Water is essential to manufacturing operations; without it, many facilities could not operate or meet production demands. Physical, reputational, and regulatory risks to water supplies compounded by climate change-induced impacts on hydrological conditions threaten the adequacy of water supplies for manufacturing. Manufacturing water use has not been a major focus of either water or manufacturing-related research. Research and development (R&D) aimed at helping manufacturers use water more sustainably and adapt to changing water conditions is needed to ensure a thriving sector and economy. However, the ability to identify R&D needs is severely limited due to a lack of current, statistically representative data on manufacturing water use and its environmental implications. In this perspective, we outline four key questions to inform R&D on manufacturing use and highlight how the current state of water data in the U.S. does not support adequately investigating these questions. We make recommendations for the water data characteristics needed to explore the research questions and knowledgeably inform R&D on manufacturing water use.

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A concept of water usage efficiency to support water reduction in manufacturing industry.

1. Introduction

2. survey of water reduction tools.

• Minimizing freshwater consumption through maximum water reuse,
• Minimizing wastewater generation through automatic design of water reuse networks,
• Optimizing freshwater sources when multiple freshwater sources are available,
• Identifying opportunities for regeneration of water through automatic design of effluent treatment networks,
• Assessing trade-offs between freshwater, effluent treatment, and pipe-work/sewer costs.

3. Definitions of Water Usage Efficiency Ratios (WERs)

• CE: Consumed Embedded water is defined as the water that is embedded into the product as an ingredient. This type of consumption is beneficial and adds value to the product. Examples are beverage manufacturing processes, where water is used as a main ingredient.
• CL: Consumed Lost water is defined as the water lost in the process through evaporation or spillage that cannot be recovered. This type of consumption is non-beneficial and occurs due to system inefficiencies and errors.
• DR: Discharged Renewable water is that fraction of discharged water which is of a quality allowing reuse either directly or after treatment. Examples are water from washing or rinsing processes, boiler blowdown water, and last rinse water from clean-in-place (CIP) or steam-in-place systems.
• DNR: Discharged Nonrenewable water is the proportion of discharged water that is unfit for reuse, because of higher levels of contamination, and is discharged as trade effluent.

4. Example Application of Efficiency Measures

• Washing process: water used to wash tomatoes.
• Cooking process: water used to cook tomatoes;
• Mixing process: water added to the tomato puree;
• Filling process: water used to wash bottles before filling with sauce.

5. Discussion

6. summary and conclusions, acknowledgments, author contributions, conflicts of interest, abbreviations.

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Sachidananda, M.; Webb, D.P.; Rahimifard, S. A Concept of Water Usage Efficiency to Support Water Reduction in Manufacturing Industry. Sustainability 2016 , 8 , 1222. https://doi.org/10.3390/su8121222

Sachidananda M, Webb DP, Rahimifard S. A Concept of Water Usage Efficiency to Support Water Reduction in Manufacturing Industry. Sustainability . 2016; 8(12):1222. https://doi.org/10.3390/su8121222

Sachidananda, Madhu, D. Patrick Webb, and Shahin Rahimifard. 2016. "A Concept of Water Usage Efficiency to Support Water Reduction in Manufacturing Industry" Sustainability 8, no. 12: 1222. https://doi.org/10.3390/su8121222

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Water Use and Stress

How much water do we use? How did it change over time?

By: Hannah Ritchie and Max Roser

First published in 2015; most recent substantial revision in February 2024.

This article previously covered aspects of clean water and sanitation access; you can now find this material in our topic pages on Clean Water and Sanitation .

Other research and writing on water use and stress on Our World in Data:

• Dairy vs. plant-based milk: what are the environmental impacts?
• What are the environmental impacts of food and agriculture?

Freshwater use

Global freshwater use.

A growing global population and economic shift towards more resource-intensive consumption patterns means that global freshwater use has increased approximately six-fold since 1900. Freshwater use includes freshwater withdrawals for agriculture, industry, and municipal uses. This is shown in the chart. Rates of global freshwater use increased sharply from the 1950s onwards but since 2000 appear to be plateauing, or at least slowing.

Freshwater withdrawals by country

This breakdown of total freshwater withdrawals is shown by country in the chart. In recent years, India, China, and the United States are the three countries with the largest freshwater withdrawals.

Water withdrawals per capita

Levels of water use vary significantly across the world. The visualization shows the average level of water withdrawal per person per year. As described in detail in our  Data Quality & Definitions section , water withdrawal is defined as the quantity of freshwater taken from groundwater or surface water sources (such as lakes or rivers) for use in agricultural, industrial, or domestic purposes.

As shown, there is a large variance in levels of water withdrawal rates across the world - this can depend on a range of factors, including climate and the importance of a country's agricultural or industrial sector, as explored in the sections below.

Renewable freshwater resources

Renewable freshwater resources per capita.

To maintain sustainable levels of water resources, rates of water withdrawals must be below rates of freshwater replenishment. 'Renewable internal freshwater flows' refer to internal renewable resources (internal river flows and groundwater from rainfall) in a country.

Renewable internal flows are, therefore, an important indicator of water security or scarcity. If rates of freshwater withdrawal begin to exceed the renewable flows, resources begin to decline. The chart shows the level of renewable internal freshwater resources per capita.

Per capita renewable resources depend on two factors: the total quantity of renewable flows and the size of the population. If renewable resources decline — as can happen frequently in countries with large annual variability in rainfall, such as monsoon seasons — then per capita renewable withdrawals will also fall. Similarly, if total renewable sources remain constant, per capita levels can fall if a country's population grows.

As we see, per capita renewable resources are declining in many countries, mainly as a result of population increases.

Per capita renewable water resources by region

The chart shows the average per capita renewable freshwater resources across geographical regions, measured in cubic meters per person per year.

Quantity of renewable freshwater resources by region

The chart shows the total internal renewable freshwater resources by region.

Agricultural water withdrawals

Freshwater use in agriculture.

Water is an essential input to global agriculture, whether in the form of rainfed sources or pumped irrigation. The visualization shows the total quantity of freshwater withdrawals that are used in agriculture, whether in the form of food crops, livestock, biofuels, or other non-food crop production.

India's agricultural water consumption has been growing rapidly  — almost doubling between 1975 and 2010 — as its population and total food demand continue to increase.

Share of freshwater withdrawals used in agriculture

How do agricultural freshwater withdrawals compare to industrial and domestic sources? Globally, we use approximately 70 percent of freshwater withdrawals for agriculture. 1

However, this share varies significantly by country – as shown in the chart, which measures the percentage of total freshwater withdrawals used for agriculture. Here, we see large variations geographically and by income level. The average agricultural water use for low-income countries is much higher than it is for high-income countries.

There are a number of countries across South Asia, Africa, and Latin America that use more than 80 percent of water withdrawals for agriculture. Many countries in Europe tend to use a much lower share of water for agriculture; Germany and the Netherlands use less than one percent.

What share of agricultural land is irrigated?

Irrigation — the deliberate supply of agricultural land with water — has been an important input factor in the observed increase of crop yields across many countries in recent decades. It has also been a strong driver in the quantity of water used for agriculture.

The share of the total agricultural area (the combination of arable and grazing land) that is irrigated is shown in the chart. As we can see, irrigation is particularly prevalent across South Asia and the Middle East, with many countries irrigating more than a fifth of their agricultural area.

Slower progress in increasing crop yields in recent decades in Sub-Saharan Africa has been partly attributed (among other factors including fertilizer application rates and crop varieties) to lower uptake of irrigation in Sub-Saharan Africa. 2

Industrial water withdrawals

Water use in industry.

Water is used for a range of industrial applications , including dilution, steam generation, washing, and cooling of manufacturing equipment. Industrial water is also used as cooling water for energy generation in fossil fuel and nuclear power plants (hydropower generation is not included in this category) or as wastewater from certain industrial processes.

The visualization shows the total annual water withdrawals which are used for industrial purposes. The United States and China are two countries that withdraw the most water for industrial uses.

Many countries across the Americas, Europe, and East Asia & Pacific regions use more than one billion m³ for industrial uses per year. Freshwater withdrawal for industrial uses is typically much lower across Sub-Saharan Africa.

Share of freshwater withdrawals used in industry

The visualization provides an overview of industrial water withdrawals measured as the share of total water withdrawals (which is the sum of agricultural, industrial, and domestic uses).

In contrast to the global distribution of agricultural water withdrawals, industrial water usage tends to dominate in high-income countries and is small in low-income countries.

The regions with the greatest share are Central and Eastern Europe. Across Sub-Saharan Africa, these industrial water withdrawals contribute to a very small share of total withdrawals.

Municipal water withdrawals

Freshwater use for households and public services.

Municipal water is defined as the water we use for domestic, household purposes, or public services. This is typically the most 'visible' form of water: the water we use for drinking, cleaning, washing, and cooking.

Municipal water withdrawals are shown in the chart. China, India, and the United States have the highest domestic water demands. This is partly down to the large populations of these countries and higher per capita water demands in the United States.

Share of freshwater withdrawals used in households

Despite being the most visible use of freshwater, domestic demands for most countries are small relative to agricultural and industrial applications. Globally, around 10 percent of withdrawals are used for municipal purposes.

Municipal uses as a share of total water withdrawals across the world are shown in the chart. The majority of countries use less than 30 percent of withdrawals for domestic purposes.

The share of municipal water in some countries across Sub-Saharan Africa can be high as a result of very low demands for agricultural and industrial withdrawals. Domestic uses of water withdrawals can also dominate in some countries across Europe with high rainfall, such as the United Kingdom and Ireland, where agricultural production is often largely rainfed and industrial output is low.

Water stress and scarcity

As the global population grows (increasing agricultural, industrial, and domestic demands for water) and water demand increases, water stress and the risk of water scarcity are now a common concern. This is even more applicable for particular regions with lower water resources and/or larger population pressures.

Water stress is defined based on the ratio of freshwater withdrawals to renewable freshwater resources. Water stress does not insinuate that a country has water shortages, but it does give an indication of how close it may be to exceeding a water basin's renewable resources. If water withdrawals exceed available resources (i.e., greater than 100 percent), then a country is either extracting beyond the rate at which aquifers can be replenished or has very high levels of desalinization water generation (the conversion of seawater to freshwater using osmosis processes).

What share of freshwater resources do we use?

The visualization provides a measure of levels of water stress across the world. This is measured based on freshwater withdrawals as a share of internal (renewable) resources. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations categorizes water stress in the following ways: if withdrawals are less than 25 percent of resources, then a country has no water stress; 25-50 percent is low stress; 50-75 percent is medium; 75-100 percent high stress; and greater than 100 percent is critical stress. 3

Several countries across the Middle East & North Africa have extremely high levels of water stress. Many have withdrawal rates well in excess of 100 percent — this means they are either extracting unsustainably from existing aquifer sources or producing a large share of water from desalinization.

Water stress in Northern Europe, Canada, much of Latin America, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Oceania is typically low or low to medium.

Water use of food products

Globally, 70 percent of freshwater withdrawals are used for agriculture. However, water requirements vary significantly depending on food type. The charts show the global average freshwater withdrawals in liters per kilogram of food product, per 1000 kilocalories, and 100 grams of protein.

Freshwater withdrawals per kilogram of food product

Freshwater withdrawals per 1000 kilocalories, freshwater withdrawals per 100 grams of protein, definitions, water withdrawals.

Water withdrawal:  Water withdrawals (also sometimes known as 'water abstractions') are defined as freshwater taken from ground or surface water sources (such as rivers or lakes), either permanently or temporarily, and used for agricultural, industrial, or municipal (domestic) uses.

The UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) AQUASTAT Database defines  total water withdrawal as: "Annual quantity of water withdrawn for agricultural, industrial and municipal purposes. It can include water from primary renewable and secondary freshwater resources, as well as water from over-abstraction of renewable groundwater or withdrawal from fossil groundwater, direct use of agricultural drainage water, direct use of (treated) wastewater, and desalinated water. It does not include in-stream uses, which are characterized by a very low net consumption rate, such as recreation, navigation, hydropower, inland capture fisheries, etc."

Total withdrawal is equal to: [withdrawals for agriculture] + [withdrawals for industry] + [withdrawals for municipal/domestic uses].

The UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) AQUASTAT Database  gives the following definitions for agricultural, industrial, and municipal withdrawals:

Agricultural water withdrawal : "Annual quantity of self-supplied water withdrawn for irrigation, livestock and aquaculture purposes. It can include water from primary renewable and secondary freshwater resources, as well as water from over-abstraction of renewable groundwater or withdrawal from fossil groundwater, direct use of agricultural drainage water, direct use of (treated) wastewater, and desalinated water. Water for the dairy and meat industries and industrial processing of harvested agricultural products is included under industrial water withdrawal."

Industrial water withdrawal : "Annual quantity of self-supplied water withdrawn for industrial uses. It can include water from primary renewable and secondary freshwater resources, as well as water from over-abstraction of renewable groundwater or withdrawal from fossil groundwater, direct use of agricultural drainage water, direct use of (treated) wastewater, and desalinated water. This sector refers to self-supplied industries not connected to the public distribution network. The ratio between net consumption and withdrawal is estimated at less than 5%. It includes water for the cooling of thermoelectric and nuclear power plants, but it does not include hydropower. Water withdrawn by industries that are connected to the public supply network is generally included in municipal water withdrawal."

Municipal water withdrawal : "Annual quantity of water withdrawn primarily for the direct use by the population. It can include water from primary renewable and secondary freshwater resources, as well as water from over-abstraction of renewable groundwater or withdrawal from fossil groundwater, direct use of agricultural drainage water, direct use of (treated) wastewater, and desalinated water. It is usually computed as the total water withdrawn by the public distribution network. It can include part of the industries and urban agriculture, which is connected to the municipal network. The ratio between the net consumption and the water withdrawn can vary from 5 to 15% in urban areas and 10 to 50% in rural areas."

Water stress levels

Renewable internal freshwater resources refer to the quantity of internal freshwater from inflowing river basins and recharging groundwater aquifers. Data on renewable resources should be treated with caution; since this data is gathered intermittently, it fails to capture seasonal and annual variance in water resources, which can be significant in some nations. Data at a national level also fails to capture variability at more local levels, which can be important when analyzing the sustainability of particular groundwater aquifers or surface water basins.

Water stress is defined in its simplest terms as occurring when total freshwater withdrawal substantiates a large share of available renewable freshwater resources.

UN-Water defines water stress categories based on this percentage (% of withdrawals to renewable resources) as follows:

• <25% = no stress
• 25-50% = low stress
• 50-75% = medium stress
• 75-100% = high stress
• >100% = critical stress

Interactive Charts on Water Use and Stress

Gleick,P.H et al. (2014).  The World's Water: The Biennial Report on Freshwater Resources.  Washington, DC: Island Press). Available online .

World Bank (2008) – World Development Report (2008): Agriculture for Development. Washington, DC: World Bank. Available online .

FAO and UN Water. 2021. Progress on Level of Water Stress. Global status and acceleration needs for SDG

Indicator 6.4.2, 2021. Rome. https://doi.org/10.4060/cb6241en

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Saving Water and Methods of Its Protection Research Paper

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

Introduction

Water scarcity, industrial water protection and conservation, domestic water protection and conservation measures, forced water conservation, discussion and conclusion, reference list.

Every form of life depends on water for existence. Water is also critical for most industrial processes. However, misuse and pollution of water are making it a very scarce commodity although most of the world population does not realize this. This paper describes water scarcity, factors behind the scarcity and the possible methods of protecting and conserving it.

At an industrial level, a good water management plan (WMP) is mandatory. Apart from saving water, the good WMP benefits the industry in various other ways. These are described in the paper. It also considers various methods of saving water at home and the possibility of forced water conservation in cases where consumers are ignorant.

What is water? How and why do we need to conserve it? These are very important questions when considering sustainability of life in the future. Most people especially in the developed world do not realize that sustainability of life in the future is at stake if measures to conserve water are not implemented.

This is because through out their lives, these people have had readily available fresh water (Cheng, 2010). Their taps and showers never run out of water, the water closets always flush and even when they need ice, the refrigerator has more than enough. The only people who realize that water is scarce are those from arid and semiarid regions where getting a cup of clean drinking water counts as one of their greatest challenge.

In the developing countries of Africa and the Middle East, women from some places walk for six kilometers a day just to fetch water. Even in their cities, water crisis is not a new thing. This has not been felt in the developed countries because of the well-established infrastructure, which is absent in the developing countries. Due to this, the issue of water scarcity is assumed to only affect the developing countries.

However, this is not the case and Live Earth CEO has warned that in 20-25 years time, there will be a disaster in developed countries (Mueller, 2010). There is therefore a dire need to protect and conserve water in our daily domestic and industrial activities.

Water is a unique compound. It exists naturally in three physical states namely: solid, liquid and gas unlike many other compounds.It is vital for sustenance of life; it transports nutrients and oxygen to cells, normalizes body temperature, regulates Earth’s temperature, removes wastes, protects tissue, and many other functions (“importance of water,” n.d.).

Without water, standard animals would only survive for a few days.At an industrial level, all manufacturing and processing companies require water somewhere along their production lines.Water is therefore important not only for existence of life, but also for economic activities.It needs to be protected and conserved.

In order to show effectively the importance of conserving water, it is imperative to show the logical reasons for doing so. Since it is a known fact that 80% of the earth’s surface is covered by water, someone may ask how then water can be scarce. To answer this question, water is scarce because only less than 1% of this surface water is fresh water (“The water cycle,” n.d.).

Almost all of our daily needs such as drinking, cooking, irrigation, manufacturing and many others require this fresh water. Apart from the surface water, there is the ground water. This water is also available for use but over the years, the water table has been decreasing day by day. Boreholes dry up and deeper ones need to be drilled.

Another problem with availability of water is water pollution. Although Earth’s processes recycle water, its pollution makes it unavailable for future use. Factory discharges, pesticides and herbicides, sewage waste, detergents and all other chemicals that we use on the surface affects the natural water sources. Pollution is therefore acting as one of the major reasons of scarcity in portable water. Measures to protect and conserve water can be applied at domestic and industrial level.

Industries should also strive to conserve water. To do this, they need a water management plan (WMP) which is effective. For the water management plan to be effective, it must incorporate both systems and technical approaches (Mohan, 2007). This is because incorporating both systems and technical approaches ensures that water management is sustainable.

That is, the plan will effectively manage the water usage at the current state of the company as well as in the future. The change in management priorities or departure of a champion for the plan does not jeopardize the WMP. Therefore, an effective WMP ensures continued improvement in water conservation. All companies that are planning to conserve water must have an effective WMP.

Traditional water management systems only incorporated the technical approach and sustainability was a problem. Mohan (2007) describes the characteristics of a good WMP to be leadership, accountability, efficient water usage, minimized pollution, addressing behavioral changes in water usage, driving development of data collection and reporting of water usage, specifying the benefits and costs of the system to the company and driving changes in how the company interacts with suppliers.

By ensuring that the water management plan of the company meets these characteristics, sustainable water management by the company is achieved. The company also achieves other benefits. It saves costs, aligns water conservation with corporate strategy, good public relation and citation for obtaining subsidies among others. The plan also has the overall effect of minimizing water shortage.

At home, every individual can contribute at protecting and conserving water. If everybody is made aware of the importance of conserving water, the world’s population may safeguard its future and that of the future generations.

One of the areas in which people can save water is through minimizing the quantity of water spent every day. People use water without caring if there will be more tomorrow. They just know that if there is no water, they will complain to the city council and the problem will be solved. This is especially the case if the families can afford the clear the water bills.

People misuse the water because they can pay for it. They spend too much time in the shower, leave the taps running unnecessarily and excessively water their lawns. These are just a few examples of some of the ways people use excessive water in circumstances that would require less water. By making people aware of the effect their activities have on water availability, some wasted water will be conserved.

Apart from conserving water, individuals may also protect water sources from pollution. Use of environmental friendly detergents and other household chemicals will have a positive impact on minimizing the level of water pollution. By minimizing water pollution, the costs involved in treatment and purification of water will be used to implement other infrastructure in water management.

Leaving the option of conserving water to individual citizens may not be very effective since some of them may not care much. The authorities involved in provision of water should put in place measures that force the consumers to conserve water. In Los Angeles, the city’s department of water and power has implemented several restrictive measures to cub water wastage.

Lawn sprinklers in the region are not permitted between 9.00am and 4.00pm (Welch, 2009). This ensures minimum water loss through evaporation. In addition to this, the sprinklers are only permitted twice a week a week (Welch, 2009). The result of these restrictions is that water consumption by single-family homes decreased by over 23 percent.

To be able to observe these restrictions, Los Angeles residents had to change the type of vegetation they planted on their compounds. They replaced grass that requires a lot of water with low water native plants like rosemary and synthetic grass. These measures by the city council were effective in controlling wastage of water.

It is worth noting that the city council determined the most water wasting activities performed by residents of Los Angeles and restricted them. This can also be done in other cities. If residents of Los Angeles, which receives very little rainfall in a year, can save water, residents of other places can save water too

Ensuring water conservation is a challenging task. It has many challenges especially since it mainly depends on people’s perception and willingness to change. To change people’s perception and habits, intensive awareness campaigns are needed and this requires a lot of investment.

With few bodies ready to support such campaigns, it is still not possible to reach every individual and change their water usage habits. At the industrial level, investment is also needed to implement WMPs. Most corporate organizations are not willing to make the step especially those focused on only maximizing their profits. These limitations therefore call for forced water conservation by authorities, which is not sometimes possible due to lack of such laws in many places.

Water is vital for existence of life. It is also important for economic activities carried out by man. The amount of water available on Earth is not enough to meet all its requirements. Further more, with the current excessive waste of fresh water and pollution, the life of future generations is at stake. If protection and conservation of water is not done, there will be a disaster in the coming few decades. The conservation measures are needed at both domestic and industrial levels.

At the domestic level, awareness is needed since most people in developed countries do not realize the importance of conserving water. Forced water conservation is even needed in some cases. At an industrial level, all companies should develop and implement an effective water management plan (WMP) that ensures sustainable water management. A good WMP has far-reaching benefits for the company as well as the society. (1640 words).

Cheng, M. (2010). Teen Ink . Be hydro-smart. 21(6), 25-25.

“Importance of water.” (N.d.). Water is our lifeline that bathes us and feeds us . Fremont watersheds. Web.

Mohan, S. (2007). Practical Approach to Water Conservation for Commercial and Industrial Facilities. Amsterdam: Boston Elsevier.

Mueller, E. (2010). Going the Distance-An Interview with Live Earth CEO Kevin Wall.

The water cycle.” (N.d.). Ecosystems . Thinkquest. Web.

Welch, W.M. (2009). L.A. mows down water usage . USA Today. Web.

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Essay on Uses of Water

Students are often asked to write an essay on Uses of Water in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Uses of Water

Introduction.

Water is a precious resource, vital for all forms of life. It’s not just for drinking but has many other uses.

Hygiene and Health

We use water for bathing, washing our hands, and brushing our teeth. It helps us stay clean and healthy.

Cooking and Drinking

Water is essential in our diet. We drink it to stay hydrated and use it in cooking our meals.

Agriculture

Farmers use water to irrigate crops. Without water, agriculture would be impossible.

Industrial Uses

Water is also used for recreational activities like swimming and boating. It brings joy and fun.

Water is indeed a versatile resource. Its uses are vast and essential, making it a key element in our lives.

Also check:

250 Words Essay on Uses of Water

Water, the universal solvent, is undoubtedly one of the most critical resources on Earth. It plays a pivotal role in various aspects of life, ranging from maintaining biological life to driving industrial processes.

Biological Significance

Domestic use.

At home, water is indispensable for daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene. It is not just a medium for cooking, but also a key ingredient in many recipes. In hygiene, it is the primary agent for washing, bathing, and sanitation.

Industrial Applications

In industries, water serves multiple purposes. It is used as a coolant in power plants, a solvent in chemical industries, and a raw material in beverage industries. Furthermore, it is essential in construction, where it is mixed with cement to make concrete.

Agriculture, the backbone of many economies, heavily relies on water for irrigation. It aids in the germination of seeds, growth of plants, and production of crops.

In conclusion, water is an irreplaceable resource with diverse uses in various sectors. As we continue to exploit this resource, it is vital to remember the importance of sustainable usage and conservation to ensure its availability for future generations.

500 Words Essay on Uses of Water

Water, a fundamental resource for life, is often taken for granted due to its ubiquitous presence. However, its multifaceted usage in various sectors highlights its indispensable nature. This essay will delve into the various uses of water, including domestic use, agriculture, industry, and energy production.

Agricultural Use

Agriculture is the largest consumer of freshwater, accounting for around 70% of global water use. Water is essential for crop irrigation, livestock rearing, and aquaculture. It aids in the growth of plants, maintains the health of animals, and is a crucial component in the production of various agricultural goods. Furthermore, water is involved in the transformation of raw agricultural products into consumable goods, underscoring its importance in food security and rural livelihoods.

Industrial Use

Industries are significant consumers of water. It is used in various industrial processes, including manufacturing, cooling, and cleaning. For instance, water is used in large quantities in the textile industry for dyeing and treatment of fabrics. In the food and beverage industry, water is a primary ingredient and is also used for cleaning and sterilization. Moreover, the pharmaceutical industry uses water in the production of medicines and other healthcare products.

Energy Production

Environmental significance.

Beyond its practical uses, water is fundamental to the environment. It supports biodiversity by providing habitats for a myriad of species in rivers, lakes, and oceans. Water cycles also regulate the Earth’s climate and weather patterns. Furthermore, water bodies act as natural filters, absorbing pollutants and mitigating their impact on the environment.

In conclusion, the uses of water are multifaceted and far-reaching. From quenching our thirst to generating electricity, water is integral to life and societal functioning. As we continue to exploit this precious resource, it is imperative that we recognize its value and strive for sustainable usage to ensure its availability for future generations.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

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Essay on Water for Children and Students

Table of Contents

Water is a colourless and odourless substance that is essential for the survival of the living beings. It is derived from various sources including rivers, lakes, oceans and streams and has several uses.

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Water constitutes of almost 71% of the Earth’s surface. On earth, it moves constantly via water cycle. This is the cycle of evaporation and transpiration, precipitation, condensation and runoff. Water is used in numerous ways and is vital to all living beings. Here are essays on water of varying lengths to help you with the topic in your exam. You can select any water essay according to your need.

Also Check: Essay on Environment

Long and Short Essay on Water in English

Essay on water 200 words.

Water, known to be the universal solvent, plays a key role in the survival of various forms of life on earth. It is used for various purposes such as drinking, cleaning, cooking, washing and bathing. Besides these domestic uses, major amount of water is used in the agricultural sector mainly for the purpose of irrigation. A substantial amount of this substance is also used in the industrial sector.

However, unfortunately despite being aware about the importance of water in our lives, people around the world are leaving no stone unturned in wasting water and deteriorating its quality. The techniques used for irrigation in many parts of the world including India are old and mundane and often cause immense loss of water. Several industries make use of a good amount of water however they end up throwing their waste in water bodies without realizing that the deterioration of water will ultimately lead to their own loss.

Also Check: Water Pollution

Many areas around the world are facing water deficit and many more are likely to face this problem in the times to come. It is time the government must take effective measures to store and save water and channelize it properly for appropriate distribution. The general public must also be sensitized on efficient use of water.

Essay on Water 300 Words

Water is one such substance without which we cannot imagine our life. Besides, quenching our thirst, this transparent chemical substance is used for several other purposes. It is used to accomplish several household tasks. Water is also used for agricultural purpose and is needed for industrial use. Here is a brief look at how it is used at different places.

Agricultural Use

It accounts for around 70% of the water used around the world. In agriculture, water is mainly used for the purpose of irrigation. In addition to this, it is also used for the raring of the livestock. Most of the water used for irrigation is extracted from rivers. Groundwater is also used for this purpose.

Rivers are thus said to be of great importance for the farmers. Not only do they provide water for irrigation but they also play a vital part in the water cycle.

Industrial Use

Industrial use of water includes water used for the purpose of washing, diluting, cooling, transporting, fabricating, manufacturing and processing of various products. Thermal power plants, engineering and pulp and paper industries are among the one that consume the maximum amount of water.

Domestic Use

At home water is used for many purposes. This mainly includes drinking, cooking, bathing, washing utensils, washing clothes, cleaning houses, cars and other vehicles, watering plants and for the purpose of sanitation.

Also Check: World Water Day

Each country has its own system of water supply to ensure water reaches every household so that the aforementioned basic needs of its citizens are met. While water is used as it is for cleaning, washing and bathing purpose, it needs to be purified before drinking as well as prior to using it for the purpose of cooking.

Water is vital for the survival of the mankind. However, unfortunately it is being wasted at a rapid speed around the world. Everyone should contribute his/her bit towards saving water.

Essay on Water 400 Words

Water is derived from various sources. Rivers, lakes, seas, oceans and rain are known to be some of the main sources of water. This free flowing and readily available colourless, odourless substance is needed for domestic, agricultural as well as industrial use.

Sources of Water

The sources of water are mainly divided into two categories – Surface Water and Ground Water. Rain water pours and collects on earth in the form of surface water as well as ground water. Here is a brief look at both these sources of water:

• Surface Water : It is found in rivers, lakes, reservoirs, streams, seas and other such sources. The water in lakes and rivers comes from rain and the melting of snow. The river water flows into the sea.
• Ground Water : It is found under the land. Water travels under the surface of the land by way of soil on the non-porous rocks and fills the opening in these rocks. The rocks that store and send out groundwater are known as aquifers. At times, the water stored in these rocks bursts in the form of springs due to high pressure. Ground water is also extracted by digging wells and tube wells.

Also Check: Essay on Importance of Water

Water Available for Human Use

Our planet is rich in water with around three-fourth of its surface being covered with water. However, only a small part (just about 2.7%) of the total resources of water is available for the human use.

Around 97.3% of water on earth forms a part of the oceans. It is salty and cannot be used for the purpose of irrigation or any other agricultural use. It is not even good for industrial or domestic use. Out of the 2.7% fresh water available on earth, the inland surface water that is the water available from sources such as rivers, lakes and ponds accounts for just about 0.02%. This water is crucial for the growth and survival of all forms of terrestrial and freshwater aquatic beings.

It is thus important to use it wisely. This point is emphasized time and again. However, its criticality is not yet recognized by the people. It is essential to understand the importance of saving water else we will have to learn it the hard way.

Many areas around the world get sufficient water supply. However, several others, especially those that are a part of the developing countries, face water deficit. The government of such countries must ensure proper supply of water to various areas and the people must use water wisely and avoid any kind of wastage to ensure the flow.

Essay on Water 500 Words

Water (chemical formula H 2 O) is a transparent chemical substance. It is one of the basic necessities for every living being be it plants or animals. Just as air, sunlight and food, water is needed for the proper growth and development of life on earth. Besides quenching our thirst, water is used for numerous other activities such as cleaning, washing and cooking to name a few.

Properties of Water

Water is mainly known for five of its properties. Here is a brief about these properties:

• Cohesion and Adhesion

Cohesion, also referred to as water’s attraction to other water molecules, is one of the main properties of water. It is the polarity of water by way of which it is attracted to other water molecules. The hydrogen bonds present in water hold the water molecules together.

Adhesion is basically water’s attraction between molecules of varied substances. This substance bonds with any molecule it can form hydrogen bonds with.

• Lower Density of Ice

The hydrogen bonds of water turn into ice when cooled down. The hydrogen bonds are stable and maintain their crystal like shape. The solid form of water which is ice is comparatively less dense as its hydrogen bonds are spaced out.

• Water’s High Polarity

Water has high level of polarity. It is known to be a polar molecule. It is attracted to other polar molecules and ions. It can make hydrogen bonds and is thus a powerful solvent.

• Water’s High-Specific Heat

Water can moderate temperature owing to its high specific heat. It takes a long time when it comes to heating up. It holds its temperature for long when heat is not applied.

• Water’s High Heat of Evaporation

This is another property of water that renders it the ability to moderate temperature. As the water evaporates off a surface it leaves a cooling effect on the same.

Avoid Wastage of Water

Water is required for most of the activities we indulge in our day-to-day life. It is necessary for us to conserve it else our planet will be devoid of fresh water in the years to come. Here are a few ways in which water can be conserved:

• Fix leaking taps immediately to avoid wastage of water without any delay.
• Avoid the use of shower while bathing.
• Keep your tap off while brushing your teeth. Turn it on only when required.
• Wash full loads of laundry instead of half. This will not only save water but save a substantial amount of electricity too.
• Do not leave the water running while washing dishes.
• Use rainwater harvesting system.
• Avoid using water hose for cleaning gutters. You can use brooms or other techniques instead.
• Use the right size of pans and other dishes while cooking and eating food. Avoid using those bigger than your requirement.
• Try to water your plants by hand rather than using sprinklers.
• Cover the pools so as to avoid water loss due to evaporation.

We must not waste water and contribute our bit towards its conservation. We must practice and promote activities and plans that help in conserving water and protecting its sources to meet the current and future demands of living beings.

Essay on Water 600 Words

Water is the most common liquid found on our planet. It is vital for the survival of every living being. Around 71.4% of Earth is covered with water. However, while most part of our planet is covered with water, fresh water that can actually be used for drinking, cooking and other activities is quite less. It is thus important to use this substance wisely.

Different Forms of Water

Water is present in three different forms on Earth – Solid, Liquid and Gas. Here is a brief look at these forms:

Solid : Water freezes at 0 degree to form ice which is its solid state. As water freezes, its molecules move apart and this makes ice less dense compared to water in its liquid state. This means that ice is lighter than the same volume of water in its liquid state. It can thus float on water.

Liquid : This is the most common form of water. Water in its liquid state is used in several ways including drinking, washing, cleaning, cooking, irrigating fields and processing and preparing various products in industries.

Gas : As water boils, it changes from liquid to gas, often referred to as water vapour. Vapours are always present around us. When the water vapours cool, they form a cloud.

What is Water Cycle?

Water cycle is the term given to the circulation of water on, below or above the Earth’s surface. It is the process wherein water circulates between land, oceans and atmosphere. This involves precipitation, snowfall, drainage in rivers, lakes and streams and its return to atmosphere by way of evaporation and transpiration. Water cycle is also referred to as hydrological cycle.

Water Scarcity in India

Like most of the other developing countries, many parts of India also face scarcity of water. People in the country do not get clean water for drinking and there is water deficit for the purpose of sanitization as well. None of the cities in the country receives piped water 24/ 7. It is supplied for just a few hours each day mostly for a couple of hours in the morning and an hour or two in the evening. The quality of water has deteriorated in most of the water bodies in the country. This is because of the discharge of industrial and domestic waste in water.

The scarcity of fresh water in the country is often attributed to lack of proper planning at the government’s end, corruption, increased rate of corporate privatization and increasing amount of human and industrial waste that is discarded into water. The situation is expected to worsen in the times to come as the population of the country is likely to increase to 1.6 billion by 2050.

Here is a look at some of the other causes of water scarcity in India:

• Traditional techniques of irrigation employed in our country cause a lot of water loss.
• Lack of proper planning and distribution of water among domestic consumers, agricultural sector and industrial sector.
• Decline in traditional water recharging areas.
• Urban development has choked the ground water resources.
• Increasing number of recreational activities associated with water.

While water is available on earth in abundance, it needs to be understood that the amount that can be put to use for various domestic, agricultural and industrial use is limited. It is essential to use it wisely so as to ensure it reaches every one and is also available in abundance for our coming generations. The government must employ effective techniques to save water and distribute it evenly in various areas across the country. The general public on the other hand must use it wisely to ensure that it is not wasted.

Related Topics to Save Water

Essay on Water FAQs

Why is water important.

Water is essential for life as it hydrates our body. It helps in digestion and regulates body temperature. Water supports cell function and blood circulation. It aids in nutrient transportation within the body. Water acts as a lubricant for joints and tissues. It helps remove waste and toxins from the body. Water is crucial for brain function and concentration. It supports healthy skin and prevents dehydration. Water is necessary for the growth of plants and crops. It plays a key role in various industries and daily activities.

How do you write a water essay?

Start with an introduction about the importance of water. Discuss the various uses and benefits of water. Explain its role in human health and ecosystem. Include facts, statistics, and real-life examples. Conclude by emphasizing the necessity of conserving water. What is water? A short paragraph: Water is a transparent, tasteless, and odorless substance that is essential for all forms of life. It covers about 71% of the Earth's surface and exists in three states: liquid, solid (ice), and gas (water vapor). Water plays a vital role in various natural processes, including weather patterns, nutrient cycles, and habitat maintenance.

What are the uses of water?

Water is used for drinking and quenching thirst. It is essential for cooking, cleaning, and personal hygiene. Water is used in agriculture for irrigation and crop production. It plays a key role in generating hydroelectric power. Water is used in industries for manufacturing and cooling purposes.

Why is water so important to our life?

Water is vital for our survival as it hydrates our body, supports cell functions, and regulates body temperature. It plays a key role in digestion, nutrient transportation, and waste removal. Additionally, water promotes overall health, supports brain function, and maintains healthy skin. Furthermore, water is essential for agriculture, industry, and energy production, making it indispensable for human civilization and ecosystem balance. In summary, water is a precious resource that is fundamental to life, health, and the sustainability of our planet.

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Sample answer:

The charts compare the amount of water used for agriculture, industry and homes around the world, and water use in Brazil and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

It is clear that global water needs rose significantly between 1900 and 2000, and that agriculture accounted for the largest proportion of water used. We can also see that water consumption was considerably higher in Brazil than in the Congo.

In 1900, around 500km³ of water was used by the agriculture sector worldwide. The figures for industrial and domestic water consumption stood at around one fifth of that amount. By 2000, global water use for agriculture had increased to around 3000km³, industrial water use had risen to just under half that amount, and domestic consumption had reached approximately 500km³.

In the year 2000, the populations of Brazil and the Congo were 176 million and 5.2 million respectively. Water consumption per person in Brazil, at 359m³, was much higher than that in the Congo, at only 8m³, and this could be explained by the fact that Brazil had 265 times more irrigated land.

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Some people think that people should be given the right to use fresh water as they like. Others believe governments should strictly control the use of fresh water. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

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Include an introduction and conclusion

A conclusion is essential for IELTS writing task 2. It is more important than most people realise. You will be penalised for missing a conclusion in your IELTS essay.

The easiest paragraph to write in an essay is the conclusion paragraph. This is because the paragraph mostly contains information that has already been presented in the essay – it is just the repetition of some information written in the introduction paragraph and supporting paragraphs.

The conclusion paragraph only has 3 sentences:

• Restatement of thesis
• Prediction or recommendation

To summarize, a robotic teacher does not have the necessary disciple to properly give instructions to students and actually works to retard the ability of a student to comprehend new lessons. Therefore, it is clear that the idea of running a classroom completely by a machine cannot be supported. After thorough analysis on this subject, it is predicted that the adverse effects of the debate over technology-driven teaching will always be greater than the positive effects, and because of this, classroom teachers will never be substituted for technology.

Start your conclusion with a linking phrase. Here are some examples:

• In conclusion
• To conclude
• To summarize
• In a nutshell

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City of Jackson-JXN Water (Industrial Dr)

Customers affected: This notice affects approximately 30 connections on our drinking water system.  [100-4355] Industrial Dr

City of Jackson-JXN Water has issued a Boil-Water Alert for customers who receive their drinking water from their water supply located in Hinds County.

This is a precautionary notice. This notice is the result of repair work performed on the water system. Residents will be notified immediately when the advisory is lifted. For more information customers may contact 601-500-5200 or visit www.jxnwater.com.

When a distribution system loses pressure, contaminants can siphon back into the water. Public health officials consider any system that loses pressure contaminated until tests prove otherwise. Health officials strongly recommend that all water be boiled vigorously for one minute before it is consumed. 

Checklist for Safe Water Use

• Do not drink tap water while the water system is under a boil water advisory.
• Do not drink from water fountains in parks, public or private buildings that receive water from the affected system.
• Do not use ice unless it has been made with boiled water. Freezing will not necessarily kill harmful bacteria.
• Do not use tap water to make drinks, juices, or fountain soft drinks.
• Wash your dishes in boiled water, or use paper plates for the next few days.
• Wash your fruits and vegetables with boiled or bottled water since they may have been exposed to affected water from grocery store sprayers.
• Wash your hands and bathe as usual. Bathing is safe as long as no water is swallowed.
• Brush your teeth with boiled or bottled water.
• Cook with tap water if the food will be boiled for at least one minute.

AND REMEMBER:

• Properly chlorinated water in swimming pools is safe.
• Fish in aquariums are not affected.

Bringing water to a rolling boil for one minute will inactivate all major types of harmful bacteria.

When your boil-water notice is lifted:

• 1 faucet — run for 10 minutes
• 2 faucets — run both for 5 minutes
• 3 faucets — run each for 3-4 minutes

Flush any faucet a minimum of 2 minutes to ensure clearing of the line serving the faucet.

• Discard any drinks , ice, food, etc, made during the boil water notice.
• Rewash any food or drink contact items (knives, forks, plates, etc.) with "cleared" system water.
• Check water filters (in faucets, refrigerators and elsewhere) and replace if necessary.
• Do not use water from your hot water heater for drinking until several exchanges of the tank have occurred.
• Run dishwasher through a cycle or two before washing dishes.

MSDH Bureau of Public Water Supply : 601-576-7518 (8am - 5pm). Epidemiology hotline : 601-576-7400 (24 hours) Press Contact : Office of Communications, 601-576-7667 (8am - 5pm) After hours or during emergencies, call 601-576-7400 for media inquiries