Water pollution as a major worldwide problem

Abstract

Water is essential for maintaining an adequate food supply and a productive environment for the human population and for other animals, plants, and microbes worldwide. Over two thirds of Earth's surface is covered by water so less than a third is taken up by land. As Earth's population continues to grow, people are putting ever increasing pressure on the planet's water resources. In a sense, our oceans, rivers, and other inland waters are being "squeezed" by human activities and their quality is reduced. Poorer water quality means water pollution.