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24 - Current water demands and future strategies under changing climatic conditions

from Part VI - Society, economy and water today

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 April 2011

By
Stephen Nortcliff ,
Emily Black  and
Robert Potter
Edited by
Steven Mithen  and
Emily Black
Stephen Nortcliff
Affiliation:
University of Reading
Emily Black
Affiliation:
University of Reading
Robert Potter
Affiliation:
University of Reading
Steven Mithen
Affiliation:
University of Reading
Emily Black
Affiliation:
University of Reading
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Summary

ABSTRACT

Jordan is currently one of the world's 10 water-poorest nations, a situation which has been exacerbated by a rapidly growing population. This chapter reviews the current status of the water resources in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in the context of the global pattern of increasing demand for water linked to population growth which is increasingly urban-based, increasing economic progress and the potential impact of climate change. Jordan's climate ranges from Mediterranean to arid with approximately 80% of the country receiving less than 100 mm of rainfall annually. Evaporation ranges from 2,000 mm in the north to 5,000 mm in the south. Current demand for water exceeds available renewable water resources, with the shortfall met by exploiting non-renewable reserves and water rationing. An additional water supply available for agricultural use is treated wastewater, but there are concerns and limitations to the use of this resource. The demand for water is predicted to continue to grow, and current predictions of future climate in the region indicate no change or a reduction in the quantity of rainfall and changes in the distribution through the year. These predictions of growth in water demand and shifts in rainfall patterns highlight the need to make more efficient use of the available water and to use other sustainable sources such as treated wastewater in a more effective manner.

Type
Chapter
Information
Water, Life and Civilisation
Climate, Environment and Society in the Jordan Valley
 , pp. 403 - 414
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2011

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