AP Environmental Unit 4 FRQ

Water diversion

The process of redirecting water from its natural path (such as a river or stream) to another location, often through canals, pipes, or aqueducts.

Why humans divert water

To supply water to urban areas, support agriculture, generate hydroelectric power, or control flooding.

Pros of water diversion

Provides water for drinking, irrigation, and industry; supports agriculture in dry regions; generates electricity from dams; and controls floods.

Cons of water diversion

Causes habitat loss, reduced water flow downstream, fish migration disruption, increased salinity, and ecosystem collapse.

Aral Sea water diversion

Rivers feeding the Aral Sea were diverted for irrigation, shrinking its surface area by about 60% and splitting it into North and South Aral Seas.

Consequences of the Aral Sea diversion

Increased salinity, loss of fish species, collapse of the fishing industry, toxic dust storms, and regional climate changes.

Solutions for the Aral Sea crisis

Restore river inflow, improve irrigation efficiency, build dams to retain water in the North Aral Sea, and promote international cooperation.

Argument for diverting water to urban areas

Cities depend on consistent water supply for human consumption, sanitation, and industry—essential for public health and the economy.

Argument for diverting water to agricultural areas

Agriculture provides food and economic stability, especially in dry regions that rely on irrigation.

Argument against diverting water

Disrupts natural ecosystems, reduces biodiversity, and leads to environmental degradation like drying rivers and loss of wetlands.

Balancing human needs with environmental protection

Use water-efficient technology, recycle water, limit overuse, and create policies that consider both ecological health and human needs.