In the article Population and Water, by Peter Gleick (2009), the issue of growing populations and water availability is discussed. The author implies some thinking that relates to the precautionary principle, in that he wants to prevent a possible ecological disaster before it occurs. People must realize that we are seeing evidence of more complex and harmful consequences of human activities, and therefore it is very important to do everything possible to prevent any more harm to the environment. This includes situations that have some uncertainty as to what the implications of certain activities may be.
In the article it is suggested that we must address water problems by increasing the water supply, decreasing the water demand per person and/or changing the number of people. In relation to the precautionary principle, it is possible that we may not run out of water. It is possible that we could get an enormous amount of rain for an extended period of time and the water could be captured and stored. But it would be more beneficial to take action just in case. If instead we encountered a drought, we would still have to deal with the threat of water loss. Also, the probability or extent of the damage that could be caused by decrease in water availability is uncertain. The ecosystems in the area of the water reserve would change if all of the water was gone, and no one knows how many other ecosystems would be affected by the change in that one. It is also unknown how people will get more water, most likely in a way that may cause even more environmental damage.
I agree with the author in that something must be done to prevent the complete depletion of water reservoirs. It is more likely that there will be bad environmental consequences on surrounding ecosystems if a water system is to go dry, therefore we should prevent this from happening.
Gleick, P. (2009 October 13) Population and Water. San Francisco Chronicle. Retrieved October 17, 2009, from http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/gleick/detail?entry_id=49461
I like your topic,I agree that if we look at the chances there is much more danger entailed when we neglect the issues like how you presented your article with the precautionary principle in a uniform manner. You stated yourself clear and precise and it was enjoyable to read. Well done!
ReplyDeleteI also agree that water must be conserved, and this is key to the future. We have no idea what exactly will happen in the future when the already scarce water supply further depletes. However, I feel that you could have expressed your discussion of the precautionary principles used in a clearer manner. I found the structure a little confusing! Great job!
ReplyDeletewater is everything........
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