The water footprints of global food and agriculture trade (Richard King – Chatham House)

When food and agricultural products are traded internationally, the direct and indirect water use associated with that trade results in a ‘water footprint’ – reflecting not only the freshwater needed to grow a crop, for instance, but also the water consumed in ancillary processes involved in bringing a product to market and diluting the pollution it causes. Income growth, rising populations and dietary change are increasing demand for water-intensive foods. Meanwhile, climate change, pollution and overexploitation of agricultural land are degrading water sources and depleting freshwater availability.

The water footprints of global food and agriculture trade | Chatham House – International Affairs Think Tank