Module 28 Human Use of Water Now and in the Future

Water Footprint

The daily per capita use of fresh water.

Irrigation

The method of supplying water to crops to help them grow more efficiently.

Furrow Irrigation

A method of irrigation where a trench is flooded with water; it is the oldest type and is prone to evaporation.

Flood Irrigation

A method of irrigation where the entire field is flooded with water, which can potentially cause water-logging.

Spray Irrigation

A method of irrigation that involves spraying water across a field using an apparatus.

Drip Irrigation

A method of irrigation that uses a slow dripping hose laid on or buried beneath the soil, preventing weeds and maximizing efficiency.

Hydroponic Agriculture

The cultivation of plants in greenhouse conditions by immersing roots in a nutrient-rich solution.

Advantages of Hydroponic Agriculture

Requires little or no pesticide use, uses 95% less water than traditional irrigation, and allows for year-round crop growth.

Industrial Water Use

Uses of water primarily for generating electricity, cooling machinery, refining metals, and making paper.

Household Water Use

Accounts for 10% of all water use in the United States, with significant variance among nations.

Tiered Water-Pricing Systems

A water allocation system that charges higher rates with increased water consumption.

Xeriscaping

A landscaping technique that replaces water-intensive vegetation with water-efficient native plants.

Gray Water

Wastewater from baths, showers, bathrooms, and washing machines.

Contaminated Water

Wastewater from toilets, kitchen sinks, and dishwashers.

What are the four types of irrigation methods?

Furrow, Flood, Spray, and Drip.

What is the primary use of water around the world?

Water is primarily used for agriculture.

How does household water use compare between developed and developing nations?

Developed nations tend to use more water than developing nations.