How Do Freshwater Trends Shape Sustainability in the OECD Countries?

Introduction

The OECD region encompasses diverse countries with varying levels of freshwater resources, which are utilized for multiple purposes, including agriculture, industry, and domestic needs. However, with population growth and expanding economic activities across member nations, the management of freshwater resources has become increasingly important. This paper aims to explore the relationship between freshwater abstractions and overall water availability within the OECD region.

Dataset Overview

This study will utilize the following two primary datasets to gain insights into the overall availability of freshwater resources: The OECD consists of member countries that, while having different water management policies, share a common goal of sustainable water resource use. Specifically, the level of freshwater abstraction directly impacts water supply capacity and quality. Excessive water abstraction can lead to reduced water levels in rivers and lakes, negatively affecting ecosystems and the surrounding environment.

Primary Datasets

This study will utilize the following two primary datasets to gain insights into the overall availability of freshwater resources:

  1. Freshwater - Resources
      2. Topic: This dataset provides information on the total availability of freshwater resources, including Precipitations, Total renewable freshwater, and Evapotranspiration Internal resources.
      Purpose: Acts as baseline data to understand the overall quantity of available freshwater resources and how it changes over time.

  2. Freshwater - Abstractions
      3. Topic: Tracks the volume of water abstracted from freshwater resources for various purposes, such as agriculture, industry, and domestic use.
      Purpose: Helps analyze how different levels of water abstraction impact overall water availability. It allows for identifying potential overuse or sustainable usage trends.

Through these datasets, this study will examine the crucial importance of sustainable management of freshwater resources in the EU and how adjusting abstraction levels can improve water availability. Understanding how policies for sustainable water use contribute to the protection of water resources for future generations will guide our direction forward.