Water-intensive

Describing a process, industry, or activity that requires a significant amount of water for its operation or production. This term highlights the dependence on water resources, emphasizing the potential environmental impact and resource management challenges associated with high water usage. water-intensive practices often necessitate careful consideration of water conservation strategies and the sustainability of water supply, especially in regions facing water scarcity. They also consider water footprint, the volume of freshwater used to produce goods and services.

Water-intensive meaning with examples

• Agriculture is a prime example of a water-intensive industry. Irrigation for crops, livestock watering, and post-harvest processing all consume vast quantities of water, making it vital to explore drought-resistant crop varieties, efficient irrigation techniques such as drip irrigation, and water recycling to mitigate its heavy usage. Without these efforts, agriculture could be unsustainable.
• The manufacturing of textiles, particularly cotton, is often water-intensive. From growing the cotton plant itself, and the dyeing and washing processes, a large volume of water is used, often leading to pollution issues. Sustainable practices include employing water-efficient dyeing, exploring alternative fiber sources, and investing in wastewater treatment systems.
• Hydroelectric power generation can be considered water-intensive. The construction and operation of dams and reservoirs require managing substantial amounts of water for electricity production. Balancing power generation with the needs of ecosystems, downstream users, and seasonal flow is paramount in mitigating negative effects.
• Large-scale mining operations are, in many cases, water-intensive. Extracting and processing minerals often necessitate extensive water usage for dust suppression, ore processing, and tailings management. Implementing water recycling, using alternative processing technologies, and considering water resource availability are crucial for environmental stewardship.
• The production of certain foods, such as rice, can be water-intensive. Rice farming typically involves flooding fields, which consumes a significant amount of water. Exploring alternative farming techniques, such as raised bed planting, and cultivating drought-tolerant rice varieties, can reduce water consumption and enhance sustainability.