Aquifers Quote by Lester R. Brown
“It takes 1,000 tons of water to produce 1 ton of grain. As water becomes scarce and countries are forced to divert irrigation water to cities and industry, they will import more grain. As they do so, water scarcity will be transmitted across national borders via the grain trade. Aquifer depletion is a largely invisible threat, but that does not make it any less real.”
About This Quote
Source Report: Worldwatch Institute, 2004
Water use for agriculture is massive; scarcity in one region can affect global grain markets and spread water stress internationally.
In simple terms: Agriculture consumes huge water; scarcity spreads via food trade.
Key Takeaway
Manage water use and diversify food sources.
Themes
environment
resource management
global trade
agriculture
water scarcity
food security
Mood
concerned
urgent
reflective
Type
analytical
policy‑oriented
When to use this quote
- policy planning
- agricultural investment
- international trade negotiations
- public awareness campaigns
- research on water‑efficient crops
Key Concepts
hydrology
economics
political ecology
Questions to Reflect On
- How can societies balance food demand with limited water?
- What policies can reduce water‑intensive grain production?
A Different Perspective
Water scarcity may be mitigated by technology, but demand growth can outpace supply.
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