Access to freshwater is a basic human right that is essential for the survival of individuals and communities. Unfortunately, many parts of the world, including Ghana in Africa, are facing a growing water crisis due to the increasing demand for freshwater and the effects of climate change.
In Ghana, the amount of freshwater being used is a growing concern. According to a report by the Water Research Institute of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Ghana is facing a water deficit of about 1.7 billion cubic meters per year. This is due to several factors, including population growth, urbanization, and changing weather patterns. The report also indicates that the majority of freshwater in Ghana is being used for agriculture, while a smaller but significant amount is being used for domestic purposes such as bathing and flushing toilets.
Bathing and flushing toilets are two important uses of freshwater that often go unnoticed in discussions of water scarcity. In Ghana, as in many other parts of the world, access to clean water for bathing and flushing toilets is often taken for granted. However, this is a luxury that is not available to everyone.
According to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, about 2.2 billion people worldwide lack access to safe drinking water, and 4.2 billion people lack access to safely managed sanitation facilities. This means that a significant number of people have to rely on unsafe water sources and may not have access to basic sanitation facilities.
The demand for freshwater is not just a problem in Ghana but a global issue. The United Nations predicts that by 2025, half of the world's population will be living in water-stressed areas. This means that about 3.5 billion people will be facing water shortages, and the demand for freshwater will continue to rise. In addition, climate change is expected to exacerbate the water crisis in many parts of the world by causing more frequent and severe droughts, floods, and storms.
In conclusion, the amount of freshwater being used in Ghana and around the world is a growing concern. Access to clean water for bathing and flushing toilets is often taken for granted, but it is a luxury that is not available to everyone. The demand for freshwater is expected to rise, and the effects of climate change are likely to exacerbate the water crisis in many parts of the world.
It is essential that individuals, communities, and governments take action to conserve and manage freshwater resources to ensure that everyone has access to this vital resource.