Water scarcity has serious consequences for both people and ecosystems and is a key topic in IB Geography, particularly within Option A: Freshwater – Drainage Basins. When water demand exceeds supply, the impacts extend beyond shortages, affecting health, livelihoods, economic development, and environmental stability.
One of the most immediate impacts of water scarcity on people is reduced access to safe drinking water. Limited water supplies increase the risk of dehydration and waterborne diseases, particularly in low-income communities. When clean water is unavailable, people may rely on unsafe sources, increasing illness and mortality rates. Women and children are often disproportionately affected, as they may spend long hours collecting water, reducing time available for education and employment.
Water scarcity also threatens food security. Agriculture depends heavily on reliable water supplies for irrigation and livestock. Reduced water availability leads to lower crop yields, livestock losses, and rising food prices. This increases the risk of malnutrition and poverty, particularly in regions already experiencing economic vulnerability. In IB Geography, this link highlights the importance of the Water–Food–Energy nexus.
Economic impacts are also significant. Industries such as manufacturing, energy production, and tourism rely on water. Scarcity can reduce productivity, increase costs, and limit economic growth. In extreme cases, water shortages may force businesses to close or relocate, reducing employment opportunities and weakening local economies.
Water scarcity can also contribute to social and political tension. Competition over limited water resources may increase conflict within and between communities. Shared rivers and groundwater sources can become sources of dispute, particularly in regions with weak governance or existing political instability. In IB Geography, water scarcity is often linked to geopolitical risk and human security.
Ecosystems are equally affected by water scarcity. Reduced river flows and falling groundwater levels damage aquatic ecosystems, threatening fish populations and biodiversity. Wetlands may dry out, reducing their ability to store water, filter pollutants, and support wildlife. Loss of wetlands also increases flood risk, as natural water storage capacity is reduced.
Terrestrial ecosystems are also affected. Prolonged drought stresses vegetation, reduces soil moisture, and increases the risk of wildfires. These changes disrupt food chains, reduce biodiversity, and degrade ecosystem services that humans depend on, such as pollination and soil fertility.
In IB Geography, it is important to recognise that water scarcity often creates feedback loops. Environmental degradation reduces water quality and availability, further intensifying scarcity and vulnerability.
Overall, water scarcity affects people by threatening health, food security, livelihoods, and stability, while ecosystems suffer from habitat loss and reduced resilience. Addressing these impacts requires sustainable water management, conservation, and equitable access.
RevisionDojo helps IB Geography students understand the impacts of water scarcity clearly, linking human and environmental consequences into confident, exam-ready explanations.
